Donald William Wanner Huch

Donald William Wanner Huch, known affectionately as Don, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on October 5, 2024, in Dallas, TX. Born on August 8, 1937, in Pittsburgh, PA, Don's life was marked by his unwavering kindness, love, and gentle spirit.

Don's journey began in the vibrant community of Avalon, PA, where he spent his childhood summers reveling in the joys of the local swimming pool and winters sledding down the snow-covered hills. His love for the outdoors was a constant throughout his life, a passion he shared with his beloved wife, Mary Halley Huch. The couple met at a party through a mutual friend and married in October 1960, shortly after Mary's college graduation. Together, they embarked on countless camping adventures, instilling a love for nature in their children, Alan and Donna.

A proud graduate of Avalon High School in 1955, Don's thirst for knowledge led him to further his education at Duquesne University and the University of Pittsburgh. His dedication to his studies culminated in earning a BS in Computer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1979. Don's professional life was as varied as it was impressive. He began his career at Nike-Ajax and Nike-Hercules air defense missile sites, experiences that laid the foundation for his future endeavors. He was the recipient of the Army commendation medal for meritorious service as Chief fire control mechanics from September 1968 to May 1971.

After obtaining his degree, Don contributed his expertise to the Stennis Space Center in Bay St. Louis, MS, and later to Southern Research and Innovation in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. His passion for teaching and technology found its perfect outlet as a computer science laboratory instructor at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Beyond his professional achievements, Don was a man of many interests. He found joy in building model airplanes, a hobby that he pursued throughout his life. His green thumb was evident in the beautiful flowers and experimental vegetables he cultivated, and his sense of humor was as bountiful as his garden, bringing smiles to all who knew him. Don's commitment to his faith and community was exemplified by his active membership in the Knights of Columbus at St. Thomas Church in Hattiesburg.

Don's legacy is carried on by his devoted wife of 63 years, Mary, his son Alan, his daughter Donna, and the many lives he touched with his gentle demeanor. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Roll Huch and Margaret Evelyn Wanner, and his brother, Bill.

To know Don was to know a man who always had a smile to share, whose presence was a source of comfort, and whose days were best spent surrounded by the family he cherished. His was a life well-lived, full of the simple pleasures that make for a rich and meaningful existence.

A Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at 10 AM at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, located at 1201 Alma Dr, Plano, TX 75075.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Don’s name to a charity of your choice.