Duane H. Havlicak

Duane H Havlicak, 86, passed away early Thursday morning October 19, 2017 at Brookdale Senior Living Center, Chubbuck, Idaho. Duane was born on February 27, 1931 in Pocatello, Idaho, to Florence (Hadley) and Henry Havlicak. Duane grew up in the American Falls area, graduating from American Falls High School in 1949. He was a Boys State Delegate in his junior year. Duane enjoyed basketball and other sports.

After graduation, he worked on the dry farm and attended Idaho State University where he received a CAA license to repair aircraft August 1951. In 1951, Duane was drafted into the Air Force. On November 26, 1952, Duane married the love of his life, Joan Cook in Pocatello, Idaho. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Idaho Falls Temple. They had three children - Susan, Barbara and Kenneth. He was very involved in their lives – teaching them to drive the Model A Ford, coaching, building floats, watching grandchildren, offering advice and loving better than any Dad in the world.

In October 1952, Duane began working as a surveyor with The Idaho Department of Transportation, where he worked for more than 35 years. He worked on over 200 miles of road and most of the 1-15 interstate in this area. Duane enjoyed community service. He was Chairman of the Bannock County Red Cross Board of Directors, worked in the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), and the Boy Scouts of America. He was active member and past President of the Sunrise Lion’s Club.

Duane was an active member of the LDS Church serving in various positions, and especially thankful for the opportunity to serve as Branch President of the St.Anthony Place LDS Branch. Duane loved fishing and hunting. For over 30 years Duane delighted children as Santa’s helper. He was THE Santa for the City of Pocatello, Fargo’s and, Penny’s. Following retirement, Duane worked for Cenex and Manning-Wheatley Funeral Home.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joan; children, Susan Havlicak, Pocatello; Barbara (Russell) Jones, Meridian, ID; Kenneth (Jennifer) Havlicek, Winslow, AZ; 8 grand-children, 4 step-grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; cousin, Steve Hadley, who was like a brother. Also his dog and faithful companion, Fritz. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the wonderful friends (staff) at Brookdale Senior Center for their kind and loving care to all of us. Our heartfelt appreciation to the Heritage Hospice “Angel” team of Dr. Mills, Patti, Ranee, Jeralyn, Kara and Cynthia.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at 12:00 pm at the Caldwell Park LDS Chapel (135 S. 7th Ave) The family will receive friends on Monday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Manning-Wheatley Funeral Chapel, 510 N. 12th Ave. and Tuesday 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the church. Interment will be in Mountainview Cemetery.