Donald Hookie, of Centerville, South Dakota, passed away surrounded by loved ones at the Sioux Falls VA Cottage on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Don will be remembered for his witty personality and generous spirit—qualities that touched everyone who knew him.

Born on August 6, 1942, in Lake Preston, South Dakota, Don was the third of seven children born to Charles and Elsie Hookie. He attended grade school and high school in Lake Preston, where he was actively involved in both basketball and football, showcasing his love for sports and teamwork.

On February 8, 1964, Don married the love of his life, Judy Gustafson, at Garfield Lutheran Church. After their marriage, they resided in Sioux Falls, where Don worked for Sioux Valley Milk Producers and later Lakeside Dairy.

In March 1966, after learning his name was number one on the draft list, Don chose to enlist in the U.S. Army. Following training, he served in Vietnam from December 1966 to December 1967, stationed in the highlands of An Khe, where he worked in communications.

Soon after returning from Vietnam, Don, Judy, and their daughter Sara moved to Suitland, Maryland, where he worked in the Munitions Building near the Reflecting Pool—now the site of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Their time in Maryland included living at Fort Ritchie and making cherished memories exploring our nation's capital.

After leaving active duty, Don began working nights at the Sioux Falls Post Office while attending National College of Business in the evenings, graduating cum laude. He sacrificed time with his wife and three children to make a better life for his family. During this period, he also continued his service in the South Dakota Air National Guard for 17 years, specializing in communications. His commitment to his country was matched only by his devotion to his family and community.

In 1981, Don moved his family to Centerville, SD, when he became the Postmaster. Don was known for his love of kids—never missing a chance to greet them with a playful nickname such as "Mable," "George," or "Pickle." His humor and warmth made him a beloved figure in the community. Don retired from the Post Office in 1999, ensuring he was deeply involved in his grandchildren's lives and enjoying his favorite pastime—golf. During retirement, he also drove the school bus for Centerville School until his health forced him to stop.

On September 18, 2021, Don had the privilege of returning to Washington, D.C., alongside his son, Scott, who served as his guardian on the Lyon County Riverboat Foundation Mission 7 Honor Flight. Don often spoke about how deeply he valued this experience and the special memories he shared with his son that day. He was a very proud veteran and cherished every opportunity to visit with fellow veterans.

Don and Judy celebrated 61 years of marriage on February 8, 2025. Don's health began to decline over two years ago. With Judy by his side, he was able to remain at home until November 13, 2025, when he entered the Sioux Falls Veterans Hospital and later the VA Hospice Cottage, where he received exceptional care from the staff.

Survivors include his wife, Judy Hookie (Centerville); Sara and Glenn Van Zee (Armour, SD) and their son, Landon; Shawn and Todd Johnson (Davis, SD) and their children, Bailey and Allyson (Tanner Kotek, fiancé of Allyson); and Scott and Susan Hookie (Baltic, SD) and their sons, Brady and Blake.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Elsie Hookie; his brothers Clarence, Richard, Dale, Doug, and Darrell; his sister, Vera; his father‑in‑law and mother‑in‑law, Herbert and Bernice Gustafson; and his brother‑in‑law, John Gustafson.

Visitation will be 5-7PM Friday, December 26, 2025 in the fellowship hall at Scandia Lutheran Church, 251 Broadway Street in Centerville with a prayer service at 7PM; everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite SDSU gear. Funeral services will be 10AM Saturday, Dec. 27th at the church.