Donald L. D'Hooge

Donald L D’Hooge (61) of Marion passed away suddenly, but peacefully, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at University of Iowa Hospitals following an exciting day of celebrating and cheering on his beloved Hawkeyes with family and friends.

There will be a private family viewing and interment, with a Celebration of Life being planned on November 15, 2025, with more details to come.

Don was born June 5, 1964, in Moline, IL to Albert and Betty (Hess) D’Hooge, the seventh child to round out the D’Hooge clan. Donnie quickly acclimated to his role as baby of the family - a position he held proudly and loudly until his last breath.

He was a 1982 graduate of United Township High School in East Moline, IL where he was an All-State Swimmer - holding several records for decades. He was an AAU Swim coach and beloved lifeguard at the U.T. pool where he met his high school/college sweetheart. Don and Teri were married June 21, 1986, made their home in Marion, Iowa and raised their three outstanding children together.

Don coached his kids in every sport from T-ball and flag football to Tae Kwon Do and swimming. He was their Cub Scout leader, fishing buddy, golf nemesis, dance partner, mechanic of all things and the best bon-fire builder. He was always on the lookout for a new joke to share with Eric and looked forward to their talks about motorcycles, troubleshooting computers and their annual hunting trips. Don loved working through construction ideas and solving problems about endless topics on frequent phone calls with Michael. He held dear the moments spent baking, golfing, going to concerts and tailgating at Iowa games with Jenna. The hunt for a new adventure with his daughter Emma was always terrific fun as they explored the country. Don greatly enjoyed pickleball with his sister Genie and was the loudest Grandpa in the stands at all of his grandchildren’s games, dance recitals and kindergarten graduations.

Don graduated from Black Hawk College in Moline, IL and Kirkwood College with degrees in Electronic Technology and Systems Administration. His 40-year career in Information Technology & Systems Engineering was spent at Gray Bar Electric, Control Process, University of Iowa, Cornell College and IMON. He was everyone’s favorite “IT Guy”, and he wore that badge with honor.

He was a 32 Degree Mason and Past Master of the Marion Masonic Lodge #6 for over 30 years.

Don was an avid Iowa, Chicago and White-Sox fan and Harley rider. He enjoyed music concerts and beer festivals, golf, hunting and playing euchre. He enjoyed tearing things apart and always had every intention of putting them back together, someday. He adored his dogs Nellie and Harlie; and could still dance a pretty mean polka and swim a 50 Free in under 40 seconds.

Don had an infectious smile that brought joy to every room he entered. He was ALWAYS happy and positive and instilled this in all four of his children. He was an adventurous free-spirit and unapologetically true to himself. He was outgoing and friendly to everyone he met and would often go out of his way to help anyone in need of an extra hand. Don's friends will attest to his long-standing loyalty and willingness to be all-in for any adventure. All will cherish the memories of his outrageous sense of humor, quick-wit, groan-inspiring sarcasm and contagious laughter.

Left to cherish his memory are his children Eric (Amanda Ruff) D’Hooge of Ankeny, Michael (Megan) D’Hooge of Cedar Rapids, Jenna (Luke) Burt of Shellsburg and Emma (Kyle Luken) Fye of Marion; Grandchildren AnnLea and JamesHenry D’Hooge-Ruff; Mason, Melodie and Minnie D’Hooge; Jacob (Reegan), Christian and Brylea Burt. Siblings Kenneth (Mary) D'Hooge, Coal Valley; Mary Tate, Vancouver, Wash; Genie Pritchard, Hiawatha; and Andrew D'Hooge, Silvis IL; many nieces, nephews and beloved friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother David; oldest brother Richard; and Niece, Lisa.