Donald Lee Van Hecke, 86, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

A private family service celebrating Donald’s life will be held.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Donald Lee Van Hecke was born on October 15, 1937 in Scott County, Iowa to August and Amanda (Brumm) Van Hecke.  He was a 1955 graduate of Durant High School and then went into partnership with his father milking cows and working part-time for a gas station in Walcott, Iowa.  He married Judith May Denkmann on December 28, 1957 in Davenport, Iowa.  Four children were born to this union, Barbara, Connee, Jeffrey, and Steven.

Upon his marriage to Judy, he continued working with his father until 1968 when he and Judy purchased a farm northwest of Maquoketa.  He then farmed for many years and owned and operated D.J. Ranch Saddle Shop.

In earlier years, Donald had served as a 4-H leader.  He had a passion for horses and enjoyed going to horse shows, as well as visiting with customers at the Saddle Shop.  Additionally, he enjoyed cutting and selling firewood.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Judy Van Hecke of Maquoketa, IA; children, Barbara (Sanford) Edwards of Charlotte, IA, Connee Schmitt of Vinita, OK, and Jeffrey Van Hecke of Baldwin, IA; 10 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Steven Van Hecke, and a brother Richard “Dick” Van Hecke.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.CarsonAndSon.com.