Donna Rae Hunt

Donna Rae Hunt, 80, of Hastings, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral services for Donna will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Faith Lutheran Church in Hastings with Pastor Paul Dunbar officiating. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery. Visitation will be an hour prior to the start of the service. Apfel Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Born on July 1, 1945, in North Platte, Nebraska, Donna was the cherished daughter of Leroy and Violet Gage. She was a part of the 1964 graduating class at North Platte High and later took courses at Southeast Community College, always valuing education and personal growth.

On May 7, 1966, Donna married the love of her life, Everett Hunt. Together they built a life filled with faith, family, and joy, raising their daughter, Tori Hupf.

Donna worked for over 40 years at the Dutton Lainson Company in Hastings, where she found both purpose and pride. Her strong work ethic and the relationships she built with her colleagues were a meaningful part of her life.

Outside of work, Donna found happiness in the simple joys of family and nature. Summers were spent at the lake boating and fishing—where she was known to out fish everyone. Her green thumb was well known; her flowers and tomato plants were a source of both pride and peace.

A devoted member of Faith Lutheran Church in Hastings, Donna lived her life in service to the Lord. She shared her faith by teaching Sunday School and weekday school for many years, believing deeply that every child should know they are loved by God. Her faith was unwavering, and she inspired others to seek comfort and strength in God’s presence.

Donna is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Everett Hunt; her daughter and son-in-law, Tori and Stephen Hupf; grandchildren, Lauren (Zachary) Bell and Xavier Hupf; great-grandchildren, Henry and Charlotte Bell; her brother, Kenneth (Ruth) Gage; and her brother-in-law, Leo Sylvan. She is also remembered fondly by numerous extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Violet Gage; her brother, Robert Gage; and her sister, Shirley Sylvan.

Donna’s life was one of quiet strength, deep faith, and boundless love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Memorials in Donna’s memory are suggested to Faith Lutheran Church in Hastings, where she worshipped and served faithfully for many years.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.apfelfuneralhome.com.