Donniel Horlacher

Donniel Colson Horlacher, 81, of Sandy, Utah, passed away on March 20, 2013. Donniel was born in Paris, Idaho on July 1, 1931. He moved to Logan with his parents, William and Nellie (Dunford) Horlacher. He graduated from Logan High School and then continued his education at Utah State University where he graduated in Economics with honors. He was a Captain in the Army Reserves and served until 1961. Donniel was married to JoAnn Stirland on Dec. 28, 1953. He was a doting husband and always looking after her needs. Their relationship was one to be admired.

Donniel began working at Horlacher Meats with his father at the age of 10 with the last 15 years as owner and president. He loved creating new items to sell of which he created Old Trapper Beef Jerky and French Dip.

Donniel was active in the Rotary Club of Logan serving as it’s president in 1981 and had 35 years of perfect attendance. Donniel was involved at Utah State University serving as Alunmi Association President, a member of the Institutional Council, the Big Blue Club and the Development Fund Board. He also served on Southern Utah State University Institutional Council where he received the Distinguished Service Award.

Donniel was active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving a West Central States mission. He served in all his wards wherever he was asked whether it was as Bishop, High Priest Group Leader, or with the Young Men. He loved “doing” ward dinners and programs. He also loved music. He played trumpet and baritone in high school but his real love was singing. He was a member of the Towne Singers and church choirs. On any Friday afternoon if the weather was right, you could find him somewhere on a golf course or a ski slope. He also enjoyed family time on the lake with the boat or at the cabin in Bear Lake.

Donniel was a friend to all and cherished those friendships. To this day he has many relationships that have been close for over 60 years. His charisma and charm warmed the hearts of anyone and everyone. He had an incredible sense of humor and infectious laugh that started with a big burst of air. His sheer size not only made him a gentile giant but a giant in life.

Donniel is survived by his wife of 59 years, JoAnn; daughters Gina Hazen, Rori (Brent) Hadley, Jody (Roger) Pukahi; sons Derk (Julie) Horlacher and Zann (Teena) Horlacher; sisters Kathleen (Glen) Lucherini, Karma (Jack) Balling, Sandra (Jim) Walsh, Nellie Raye; 22 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Donniel is preceded in death by his son Cole J. Horlacher; parents Willam and Nellie; brothers William and Charles; and sister Patricia.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon Friday, March 29, 2013 at the Hillcrest Chapel 875 N. 1500 E, Logan, Utah,. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 to11:30. Donniel will be laid to rest in Logan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Perpetual Education Fund.