Donald J. Hepner

Obituary

Donald John Hepner was born on May 17, 1944, in Glencoe, Minnesota. Donald was the son of Jacob “Jack” and Anna “Ann” (Kosek) Hepner. Donald was baptized as an infant on June 4, 1944, by Alfred Streufert and later confirmed in his faith as a youth on March 30, 1958, by A. H. Fellwock, both at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Glencoe. Donald graduated with the Brownton High School class of 1962.

On September 1, 1965, Donald enlisted with the United States Army National Guard, serving as a Private E-2. He was awarded the Marksman Weapons Qualification Badge (Rifle). On May 24, 1971, he received an Honorable Discharge.

On March 15, 1975, Donald was united in marriage to Patricia Ann Sayles at Peace Lutheran Church in Cosmos, Minnesota, by Pastor Ronald J. Freimark. They made their home in Glencoe. Donald and Patricia were blessed with two children, Heather and Nicole. They shared over 51 years of marriage.

Donald was a hardworking man whose life was rooted in dedication to his family, neighbors, and community.  A lifelong farmer, he spent countless hours planting crops for himself and his neighbors, caring for his animals, working the fields, and baling road ditches. He was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to help where he was needed. Donald was employed at Green Giant/Seneca in Glencoe for more than 43 years. Even after retirement, he continued to stay active and social while working at Menards in Hutchinson, Minnesota, and as a courier for Glencoe Regional Health Hospital for 7 years. Donald was a longtime member of First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Glencoe. He served as a deacon and usher there for many years. Donald was also a member of the American Legion Post #95 in Glencoe.

Donald loved bowling and was active in a bowling league for many years. A devoted Minnesota sports fan, he enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings, as well as cheering on wrestling matches whenever he could. Donald rarely missed his children’s and grandchildren’s activities and especially loved following his grandson Austin’s baseball journey, which took them to tournaments and games across the country. Some of his most cherished moments were the simple afternoons spent together after school at Dairy Queen. He also enjoyed meeting his coffee group at the Hutchinson Burger King, where he looked forward to visiting with friends, sharing stories, and catching up over coffee. Donald loved being outdoors and was happiest when he was outside enjoying fresh air and staying busy.

Donald passed away on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Hutchinson Health in Hutchinson, at the age of 81 years, 11 months, and 23 days. Blessed be his memory.

Donald is survived by his
wife, Patricia Hepner;
daughters, Heather Luepke, and Nicole Alsaker (Robert);
grandchildren, Austin Thompson (Julia), Beckett Alsaker, Jacoby Alsaker;
great-grandchildren, Oliver Thompson, Elijah Thompson, Luke Thompson;
brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dale Sayles (Roxann), John Sayles (Fran), Roger Jr. Sayles (Dawn), Julie Aguleria, Darla Hareza (Mike), Daniel Dostal;
nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Donald was preceded in death by his father and mother, Jack and Ann Hepner; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Roger and Delores Sayles; sister, Joanne Dostal; and sister-in-law, Darlene Lambert.