Donald Haecker

Donald Burr Haecker of Hewitt, TX passed away on July 23, 2022 surrounded by his family. Don was born on July 7,1928 in Hamburg, New York to Walter and Ethel Haecker. He graduated from Hamburg High School in 1946 before joining the United States Airforce in 1948. He enjoyed a career in the U.S. Airforce for over 22 years as a flight engineer where he served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He was also a proud Bronze Star with Valor recipient. After retiring from the Airforce, he enjoyed a second career as a sheet metal mechanic and aircraft supervisor with Raytheon in Waco. There were few things Don loved more than flying and airplanes, except for his friends and family.
Don was married to his beloved wife Joan Haecker for 57 years prior to her passing in 2007. He leaves behind their four children: daughter Terry Crowley and husband Frank of Parker, CO; daughter Shirley Garberg of Great Falls, MT; Son Bob Haecker and wife Arletta of Juneau, AK; and son Tom Haecker of Waco, TX. Grandchildren include Jason Garberg, Don Dudrey, David Dudrey, Chris Haecker, Scott Haecker, Heather Bankhead, and Mitchell Haecker as well as their spouses. Great-grandchildren include Bailey Garberg, Wynne Dudrey, Quincy Dudrey, Isabella Bankhead, Hayden Bankhead, and soon to arrive great-grandson Baby Boy Haecker. He also leaves behind many friends, including his dear friend June Brown as well as his long-time neighbor and friend Betsy Owens.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Joan Haecker, and his younger brother, James Haecker.
Don never met a stranger and if you had the pleasure of meeting him, you probably heard one of his many life stories and know what a full life he lived. Don always said that flying was as close as you can get to heaven on earth, and we know he is enjoying life in the sky again.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or The Wounded Warrior Project in his name.