Douglas F. Hutmacher

Douglas Frank Hutmacher, age 68 of Mead, died February 22, 2014 while travelling in Thailand. He was born December 7, 1945 in Wahoo to Frank and Joan (Pearson) Hutmacher. Doug was the first born of two children, followed by his brother, Randal. He attended Jackson Elementary School in Omaha where he lived for many years. Doug graduated from Omaha Central High School in 1964. Before joining the Navy as a Seabee, he attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha. As a Navy Seabee, he served two tours of duty in Vietnam and earned awards and field promotions for his bravery in action. Upon completing his military tour, he made Mead his permanent home. Doug joined his father and brother in Customized Construction and operated that company, along with Barbara, until his retirement. Doug and Barbara also owned and operated Husker Water Specialists of Mead from 1985 until 2013 when they sold the company to their loyal employees. During their tenure at Husker Water Specialists, Doug and Barb received numerous awards for the company's performance. In business, as in life, they worked together as a "team". Doug married Barbara Jo Yale on July 11, 1970 at Alma Lutheran Church in Mead. They were married for 42 years until Barbara passed away in July, 2013 just days before their 43rd wedding anniversary. Doug enjoyed many activities during his lifetime. He is known far and wide for his beautiful cabinetry and furniture work. Alma Lutheran Church was the recipient of many of these beautiful creations including the large cross at the front of the church and the lectern. Doug and Barb also shared a retirement home in Gold Canyon, AZ where they, together, built all the cabinets and furniture. Doug was a true craftsman. Many family members and friends enjoy the true beauty of his talent in their homes. When he wasn't building something, Doug enjoyed pheasant hunting, fishing and watching Nebraska play football. Although these were his passions, Doug's favorite thing was helping others whether it was family, friends, or anyone in need. It could be helping with a construction project, sharing his garden produce, or making someone the largest meal they had ever seen. He was always there to help, and will be loved and missed by many. He is survived by his children Shane Hutmacher of Phoenix, AZ, Christine Burch of Austin, TX, Jason Hutmacher of Wahoo, Dustin (Teresa) Hutmacher of Hutto, TX; brother Randal (Joan) Hutmacher of Ottertail, MN; step-brothers Don (Sandy) Anderson of Mead, Mick (Mary Kay) Anderson of Elkhorn; brothers and sisters-in-law Steven (Nancy) Yale of Glenwood, IA, Kathleen (Art) Hynek of Omaha; grandchildren Brytni Burch, Dalton Burch, Justin Hutmacher, Jesse Hutmacher, Taylor Kramer, Ayla Hutmacher, Greta Hutmacher, Isaiah Hutmacher and Clara Hutmacher. Doug was preceded in death by his wife Barbara; parents Frank and Joan; and brothers-in-law Terry and Michael Yale.