Donald Lee Homolka was born Oct. 26, 1950, in Crete, to Irvin and Maxine (Jelinek) Homolka and passed away at his home Oct. 31, 2023, at the age of 73 with his wife by his side.
He went to country school and attended Wilber High School, graduating in 1969. After graduating, he served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1970 and was transferred to the Army National Guard serving until 1975.
On Nov. 20, 1971, Don embarked on a new chapter in his life when he married Jane Kuzelka. Together, they shared a deep and enduring love that lasted for over five decades. Their union brought forth three sons, Roy, Keith, Jeff and daughter, Kayla. A testament to love and devotion they held for their family.
On their farm, Don worked tirelessly to grow corn, soybeans, milo, wheat and alfalfa, ensuring that his land thrived and provided for his family and community. His dedication to his family, land and his country made him a remarkable and beloved individual. He was not only a steward of the land but a passionate advocate for hunting and conservation, working to preserve the natural beauty of his surroundings. He also found joy in the serenity of fishing and shared many memorable moments by the water with his loved ones, especially his grandsons, Joey and Royce.
In his passing, he leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew him. He will be remembered not only for the land he cherished but his agricultural, gardening and canning expertise, a dedicated conservationist, the love and care he poured into his family as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend and a patriotic servant of his country.
He is survived by his wife, Jane; daughter, Kayla (Rob) Slama; grandsons, Joseph and Royce Slama; son, Jeff Homolka; granddaughter, Kassidy Homolka; aunt, Arlene Stodgel; brothers and sister-in-law, Tim Einspahr and Richard and Vicky Kuzelka; cousin, Diane (Rod) Peterson; nieces, nephews and many friends and neighbors.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Maxine Homolka; in-laws, Joseph and Helen (Vejraska) Kuzelka; sister, Carolyn Einspahr; sons, Roy A. and Keith J. Homolka; uncle, Robert Stodgel; and cousin, Gordin Stodgel.
The funeral service was Nov. 4 at Saline Center Hall, Western, with interment at Wilber Czech Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation. Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home.
