CW2 (Ret) Donald Carrol Hezlep

Donald Carrol “Don” Hezlep, son of Carroll Murray Hezlep and Mary Margaret (Boldendar) Hezlep, was born on February 7, 1948, in Canton, Illinois. Don spent his childhood in Ipava, Illinois, and graduated from VIT High School in Table Grove, Illinois. He continued his education at Quincy Tech School, where he studied Automotive Technology from 1967 to 1968 and pursued Auto Body Rebuild from 1968 to 1969. On March 1, 1969, Don married Debra Ann Stockdale in Quincy, Illinois. Their marriage spanned over 57 years, and together they were blessed with two children, Cathy Ann and James Donald. In 1969, Don joined the United States Army, faithfully serving until his retirement in 1990. He achieved the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 2 and received numerous awards and commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal (1978), Good Conduct Medal Clasp (Third Award, 1981), Army Achievement Medal (1983), Good Conduct Medal Clasp (Fifth Award, 1984), Professionalism Award (1985), Army Commendation Medal (Second Award, 1987), Meritorious Service Medal (1990), Equipment Operators Qualification Record, as well as many other certificates and distinctions throughout his career. After retiring from the military, Don held various jobs, including working as a mechanic. However, his favorite position was being a postman in St. James, where he served for sixteen years. Don loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing, hunting, boating, camping, and watching eagles. He enjoyed traveling, working in his garage, and mechanic work. One of his favorite hobbies was taking photographs with his cameras, especially while watching the eagles. He cherished moments with his family, particularly his grandchildren. Don was a member of a CB club and while he was stationed in Europe, he enjoyed demo derby events. Don made a profession of faith and was a member of Christ Mission Church in St. Robert, Missouri. He found joy in worshipping with his church family, and his commitment to his faith was evident in his willingness to help friends and neighbors. Don passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Harry S. Truman VA Hospital in Columbia, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 78. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife, Debra Hezlep; his son, James Hezlep (Theresa) of East Smethport, PA; three grandchildren, Samantha Greenman (Isaac) of Hazelhurst, PA, Alix Davy (Dalton) of Westfield, PA, and Christian Perez of Kokomo, IN; his brother, Mark Hezlep of Morrison, IL; sister-in-law, Margaret Hezlep; niece and nephew, Sarah and Scott Hezlep and their families; as well as numerous other family members and friends. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his daughter, Cathy Hezlep, and two brothers, William and David Hezlep. Though he is no longer with us, Don’s dedication to his family and country, as well as his faith, will forever remain in our hearts. Celebration of Life services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2026, in the Christ Mission Church of St. Robert, MO. Internment with military honors will follow in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery of Waynesville, MO. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2026, in the Christ Mission Church of St. Robert, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of CW2 (Ret) Don Hezlep to the Fisher House of Columbia, MO and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert or at the church the day of the service.

CW2 (Ret) Donald Carrol Hezlep

February 7, 1948 - April 4, 2026