Donald "Don" Hettel

Donald "Don" Hettel, 68, of DeKalb, Illinois passed away suddenly Monday March 18th, 2024.

Don was born on September 29, 1955 in Ottawa, IL to Albert William Hettel Sr. and Lillian Mary (Worrels).

Don graduated from Marquette High School and then attended Barber College where he obtained many "Life Lessons." After college Don worked for 33 years at the Department of Agriculture as the Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Dekalb County. While there he enjoyed his personal relationships with the farmers and families that would come into the office.  After a short retirement, he decided to work with his wife at her family business of Lehan Drugs.  He was an avid Chicago sports fan, especially his favorite team the Chicago Cubs. He played fast pitch softball over the years.   He was a member of St. Mary's Parish in Dekalb, Illinois.  Don served on many non-profit boards in which he was able to bring his talents to make positive impacts.

There were two things that brought joy to his life and that was family and traveling.  The best is when the two are together. Don was introduced to Northern Michigan and fell in love at first sight. Don and Terri enjoyed their Northern getaway of Bellaire, MI.   Don always wanted others to enjoy the time up north.

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Terri (Lehan) Hettel along with their combined children: Valerie (Pete) Hansen, April (Steve) Haring, Nathan Hettel, Brandon Hettel, DJ (Melissa) Larson, and Bobby (Donna) Larson. Along with their grandchildren Alyssa (Brandon)Hansen, Chris (Sarah)Hansen, Nick Hansen, Jon Hansen, Molly Harrison, Noah Haring, Owen Haring, Andrea Hettel, Carmen Hettel, Tommy Hettel, Shea Larson, Max Larson, Cass Larson, Maggie Larson, Maddie Larson.   Along with their great grandchildren Aalayah De Los Reyes, Kayson Perez, Parker Perez, and Camila Perez. Also survived by his former wife Pamela (Lehr) Aldridge.

He is preceded in death by his Parents, Albert and Lillian; his brothers Albert (Doc) Hettel and Charles (Chuck) Hettel and his loving companion, his dog, Buddy.

Visitation will be at Finch Funeral Home on Sunday March 24th from 4-7 p.m. Funeral Mass will take place at St. Mary's Church in DeKalb on Monday March 25th at 10:30 a.m., with Father William Etheredge officiating. Burial service will be at St. Mary's Cemetery following Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Don's honor to:

·        Society of St. Vincent DePaul, DeKalb Conference, c/o St. Mary Church, 302 Fisk Avenue, DeKalb, IL 60115

·        Ottawa Friendship House, 1718 N 2525 Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350.

Arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.