Donald J. Hlubek's Obituary
Donald “Don” Joseph Hlubek, 77, passed away Friday, December 29, 2023.
Memorial Mass will be 11:00 am, Thursday, January 4, 2024 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Clinton. Burial will be in Clinton Lawn Cemetery with military honors being conducted by the Clinton AMVETS. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the service time at the church. Snell-Zornig Funeral Homes & Crematory is honored to serve Don’s family and online condolences may be expressed by visiting his obituary at www.snellzornig.com.
Don was born the fifth of seven children to Joseph and Irene (Malli) Hlubek in Clinton, Iowa on
January 12, 1946.
Don joined the Navy after graduating St. Mary’s High School in 1964 and served his country in
Vietnam. During this time, he married the mother of his children, Carole Herr, surrounded by
friends and family in Corpus Christi, TX which is where they started their family. They
eventually settled in McAllen, TX and their family grew to seven. He ran a successful
photography business before moving back to Clinton. He then explored many career
opportunities before finally retiring. He loved to fish and reward himself with a cold beer. He
enjoyed carpentry and explored his creativity with many projects.
Don’s life had many shades and colors. He embraced life and took every opportunity to live it to
the fullest. He loved to travel, loved music and was known to cut a rug with his infamous
shoulder shrug and finger swing combo. He navigated life on his own terms and should be
remembered for his kindness and giving heart. He always looked out for the underdog and
helped those in need. Above all, his passion was his family. He adored his grandchildren and was
extremely proud of them.
He is survived his children: Dana (Bradley) Molder of Indianapolis, IN, Suzanne (Brett)
Rothwell of Katy, TX, D.J. Hlubek of Clinton, IA and Katrina (Steven) Stahl of Glenwood
Springs, CO; his six grandchildren: Tyler, Jarrett, McKenna, Nathan, Bennett, Quinn, and a new
grandson arriving in April; one great-grandson Sonny; his siblings: John Hlubek of DeWitt,
Mercedes (James) Murphy of Clinton, Karen Hart of Clinton, Gretchen Finkle of St. Augustine,
FL; James (Barb) Hlubek of Fulton, IL, Joseph (Gail) Hlubek of Clinton; and many cousins,
nieces and nephews.
Don has been reunited with his parents and his son, Kenneth “Kenny” Hlubek.
What’s your fondest memory of Donald?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donald?
Share a story where Donald's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donald you’ll never forget.
How did Donald make you smile?
