Donald Daniel Hendzel

Donald Daniel Hendzel lived a life rich in hard work, warm humor, and deep, enduring love. Known affectionately to all as "Donny," he was a devoted family man whose mischievous spark, quick wit, and endless store of stories could brighten any room. He passed away on August 17, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born to Edward and Martha Hendzel on May 8, 1939, Donny was raised in the Pulaski area alongside his two brothers, Edward ("Butch") and Gerald ("Gerry"). Donny was often the instigator of their childhood mischief-a trait that stayed with him throughout his life. Beneath that playful humor was a deeply generous spirit; he was always quick with a warm hug and eager to offer a plate of food to anyone who walked through his door.

In 1958, Donny met the love of his life, Joyce Mary Blaser. Completely smitten from the moment they met, their connection blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on devotion and laughter. Married in 1960, they made Seymour their home for over five decades, raising their five children and building a legacy rooted in love, strength, and hospitality. For Donny, family was paramount. As a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he was a sturdy pillar of support and a source of constant joy. Their farm was a sanctuary where family and friends were always welcomed with warmth.

A farmer at heart, Donny found genuine peace and fulfillment in the outdoors. He spent countless content hours under the open sky on his cherished farm in Seymour, caring for his animals and appreciating the quiet rhythm of rural life. He was also an avid sports enthusiast, transitioning seamlessly from playing in his younger years to being a passionate, vocal armchair critic. When not watching a game, Donny loved to play cards and was always up for a competitive round of cribbage, which he usually won.

Donny's faith was a central anchor in his life. He dedicated his life to God and was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses on June 26, 2011. Though he endured significant physical pain throughout his life, he drew deep comfort from the Bible's promise of a paradise earth free from suffering. Holding fast to the reassuring hope of 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, he eagerly anticipated the day he would be reunited with Joyce.

Donny will be lovingly remembered by his children: Jeff Hendzel, Laura Melotte (Bruce), Scott Hendzel (Louise), and Lynn Cornell (Jerry Fischer); his ten grandchildren: Sarah Heimerl (Kyle), Erica Wolf (Dan), Erin Muthig (Andrew), Jolene and Jessie Melotte, Levi Grudznske, Hannah Hendzel, Jenna Buman (Skyler), Jodine Martin (Brad), and Garret Cornell; and his twelve great-grandchildren: Demi and Jack Heimerl, Carson and Connor Muthig, Irma Melotte, Krew Pecha, Lydia, Sawyer, and Frankie Joyce Buman, Maci and Nora Martin, and Bennet Cornell. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Lorraine Hendzel and Donna Blaser, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Donny was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Mary Hendzel; his son, Randy Hendzel; his parents, Edward Sr. and Martha Hendzel; his brothers, Edward "Butch" and Gerald Hendzel; his sister-in-law, Kathy Hendzel; and his brothers-in-law, Dean and Jack Blaser.The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the entire team at Forest Glen Assisted Living and Good Shepherd Nursing Home. Their extraordinary care, endless compassion, and dedicated support ensured Donny was treated with the utmost dignity and comfort, bringing immense peace to his family.

A private family visitation and burial will be held to honor Donny's memory. A public memorial service will take place Friday, August 21, 2026 digitally via Zoom at 6:00 pm, allowing friends and loved ones to join remotely.

• Zoom Meeting ID: 797 3220 0713

• Passcode: 8172026
  
  In lieu of flowers, please enjoy a special moment with your own family.