Donald (Don) R. Hautzinger

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald (Don) R. Hautzinger, who peacefully left us on February 14, 2025, at the age of 88. Don was born on August 5, 1936, in Ellery Center, New York to the late Lawrence Hautzinger and Florence Elwell Hautzinger.

Don graduated from the Bemus Point School District in 1955. He played baseball for four years and was a gifted artist. Don and his brother, Joe, entered the United States Air Force in 1957 and served together in Morocco. Both brothers were honorably discharged in 1960. One year later, Don married Janet (Jan) Jolene Smith, and they raised two children, Jane and Larry. Don worked at MRC/SKF until his retirement in 1997 after 42 years of service. While working, Don also went to Jamestown Community College to earn his Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He graduated with honors.

After retiring, Don and Jan moved south and settled in Edgewater, Florida. Don returned to his art and created many beautiful paintings over the years. He was even asked to showcase his artwork at the Edgewater Township Building. He played senior softball and ruled the outfield. Don was also a volunteer for the Citizens Assisting Police (CAP) Program in Edgewater from 2007 – 2016, logging 4,800 volunteer hours and winning the “CAP of the Year” award in 2009. In his free time, Don enjoyed watching all sports, although he spent many years hoping for that Buffalo Bills Super Bowl win.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Janet Smith Hautzinger, his daughter Jane Hautzinger, his son, Larry (Linda) Hautzinger, and his two grandchildren, Sarah (Matthew) Hautzinger Loumeau and Daniel Hautzinger. Don was a favorite among his many nieces and nephews and will be missed.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Florence; his sister, Agnes Hautzinger O’Brien; his brother, Joseph Hautzinger; and his beloved Shih Tzu, Matthew (Matty).

Don had a special bond with his childhood friends that lasted his entire life.

He was preceded in death by Bert Hallberg, Elmer Hallberg, and Jack Pierce.

He is survived by Bruce Underwood and his best friend since first grade, David Hallberg.

There will be a memorial service this summer in Bemus Point, New York, with a date to be announced at a later time.