ELMA — Donald James “Don” Havlik, 62, of Elma, died Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. He is remembered for his devotion to family, years of work as an electrician and love of golf and the Iowa Hawkeyes.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 203 Seventh Street in Elma, with the Rev. Donald Hertges celebrating the Mass. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Cemetery, 17775 Lourdes Road in Elma, where the funeral home lists the cemetery service at 11:45 a.m.
Friends may greet the family from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, October 16, 2026, at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory, 508 Maple Street in Elma. A parish scripture service will follow at 6 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour before Saturday’s Mass at the church.
Don was born December 16, 1963, in Elma, the son of Edward and Matilda (Elenz) Havlik. Family, Christian faith and a strong work ethic were central to his life.
After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army Reserves, where he began learning the electrical trade. Following his honorable discharge, he went to work for Hormel Foods in Austin and continued his schooling to become a certified electrician.
He spent 14 years with Hormel before joining John Deere in Waterloo in 1999. Don worked there as an electrician for 25 years, retiring when his health no longer allowed him to continue. His family’s tribute describes a dependable employee who took pride in doing his work well.
Don and Ann married and had a son, Stephen. Although their marriage later ended in divorce, Don remained a devoted father. His granddaughter, Kylen, held a special place in his heart, and he treasured the time he could spend with her.
Hunting and fishing were among his interests when he was younger. Golf became a lasting passion, and he was proud to make his home on the golf course in Elma. He also followed the Iowa Hawkeyes with enthusiasm.
As his health declined, Don continued to enjoy golf through televised tournaments and a computer golf game. Watching documentaries was another favorite way to spend his time.
His family remembers him for quiet strength, loyalty and a steady nature. Work mattered to him, but so did the relationships and familiar interests that brought joy to his everyday life.
Don is survived by his son, Stephen Havlik of Elma, and granddaughter, Kylen Zabel of Elma. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Bonnie Havlik.
For service updates and to share condolences, visit Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home’s tribute to Donald James Havlik.
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