In Memory of Don Hauck

Don and I have been best of friends for 50 years and did everything together. Over our years together we ran, swam at Barton Springs, and played tennis while trying to solve the world’s problems. He was instrumental for bringing me into the fellowship of the First Presbyterian church. We could be found every Sunday at the first service sitting in the 2nd pew on the left. First Presbyterian was central to his life and I benefited greatly from participating in many church out-reach missions such as Hands-on-Housing, Freeze Night at Central Presbyterian, and most satisfying of all, leading the construction of two Habitat-for-Humanity homes sponsored by First Presbyterian. Don had a gift of volunteering me for experiences that enriched my life and made me forever thankful. After my retirement from the university and move to northern California, we continued spending one week each year visiting one another and continuing our project engagements. I still reach for the phone to call Don each Sunday evening for our weekly check-in ritual. I miss you, my brother in spirit. 

Jim Fitzsimmons

Rev. Hauck was a man whose entire life motto can be summed up as "I'm here to help." Don was both Paul and James: both faith and works, theology and practice. Don was a true Christian, the leaven in the world, and he ends his pilgrimage on earth having given far more than he ever took. Our world is a better place for men and women like Don Hauck.

Don was one of the first First Prez members I befriended when I joined FPC in the late eighties and he was influential in my participation in Walk to Emmaus. He will be missed but remembered.

I knew Don through a professional relationship and I have to say that three things came through very clearly in my dealings with Don. HIs love for his family, his faith and his charitable heart. I will miss working with Don, but have been blessed to know him and I know that he has truly received his greater reward.

Don was everything you would wish for in a friend and colleague. He was a loyal member of our tennis group for many years. Always a gentleman, genuinely interested in the welfare of other. We all miss him.

So sad to learn of Don death. He was such a special friend, he and Marge both. We had many happy hours with him on our PMF trips. He was such a “people “ person. So easy to love and a lot of fun.
My love and prayers to the family.




Thank you so much Sarah for sharing all the pictures of Don and Marge. I have been through them several times—good memories.

I knew Don through my father, another Presbyterian minister. He was always kind and helpful to me working on insurance issues. So good to hear about his life of service.

I had the pleasure of breaking bread with Don, his lovely wife, friends and family. He was very kind, warm and welcoming. I am saddened that I didn’t get to know him more. That first and only meeting was truly a gift. Don and Marge have gifted me my place into a wonderful family. Thank you for the wonderful legacy of love you leave behind in your children/family and all who are blessed to love and know them.

Don and I have spent many hours doing Mobile Loaves and Fishes, Habitat for Humanity, Walk to Emmaus, freeze nights, and Bible study. He was never one to sit still. Always looking for another way to be of service. He was truly a very dear friend to me and I will miss him dearly.

The stories he shared, the stories about him that y'all shared over the years - what a wealth of memories and an abundance of love! He and Dad were kindred "turn off the lights" spirits. Lesson well learned, as I plunge my family into almost total darkness rather than waste energy. I'll think of Don next time I see a light carelessly left burning!

Don Hauck was a good family friend since 1970 who witnessed to Christian teachings of doing good wherever he might be for as many years as he was given. We worked together on church matters and with friends made special events and significant birthdays uniquely fun and memorable. Our family valued his presence in our lives as we treasure the many sweet memories made together over half a century.

I am sorry to hear of Don's passing. He was involved and gave so much as a neighbor and resident at the Conservatory North Austin. He will be missed.

Don has been a friend for almost 25 years now, and I will miss him. A gentle man and one of the shining blessings of my family's membership as First Presbyterian Church in Austin.

He was a great uncle always apleasure to be around and he will be sorely missed by myself and my family.He was of course my mother’s favorite brother-in-law

He will be missed by all who knew him. It is so true that he left this earth a better place through his love, empathy and example. Hugs and prayers to his friends and all the family. Rest in Peace Uncle Don.

Don was my favorite uncle, and, truly, one of the most memorable characters in my life. His and Margie's passing leaves a large hole in the universe. My thoughts and prayers go out to the rest of their family and friends.

What a wonderful human, who truly left the world a better place. During the sadness I hope the amazing memories bring you comfort and even more appreciation.