Donald "Duck" Carl Huisman

Donald “Duck” Carl Huisman, age 80, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. A funeral service will be held at 11:00am at The Bridge Reformed Church 10025 NW 62nd Ave in Johnston, Iowa, with visitation one hour prior to services at the church. Burial to follow 2PM at Bondurant Cemetery in Bondurant, Iowa.. Duck was born on January 23, 1946 in Adrian, Minnesota and spent his youth on a family farm, where he developed a love for building and creating. As a young adult, he moved to Iowa, where he built a life centered on family, service, and a strong work ethic. He married Karon Schipper on January 25, 1967, and together they built a life centered on family, until her passing on January 21, 2004. Duck proudly served in the United States military and carried that spirit of service throughout his life. His curiosity and wide range of skills led Duck to own and operate several businesses over the years, including a plumbing and electrical supply business, independent contracting and home building ventures, and a car wash. He also managed the track conditions at two horse racing tracks. His determination, resourcefulness, and ability to fix or build just about anything allowed him to live independently until his death. Duck dedicated himself to serving his community. He volunteered for many years as a firefighter and EMS responder in Moravia, Iowa, earning the rank of Fire Chief. He also spent time in law enforcement. In his personal life, Duck enjoyed woodworking, painting, motorcycling, boating, and following the Minnesota Vikings. He and Karon loved the outdoors and camping with friends and eventually became campground hosts. He brought joy to others by volunteering as a clown in local parades—riding a minibike and handing out candy, and later as a beloved Santa Claus during the holidays. Above all, Duck treasured his family. He especially looked forward to weekly lunches and holidays spent together, creating lasting memories with those he loved most. Duck is survived by his children: Patricia (Patty) Smith (Mike) of Maumelle, Arkansas; JoDee Buis (Troy) of Winter Springs, Florida; and Shari Butler (Kevin) of Waukee, Iowa. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Corbin Huisman (Marty), Justin Smith (Patty), Tanner Buis and Jessica Bius (JoDee), Conner Butler and Jarett Butler (Shari); and his great-grandchildren: Oliver Smith (Justin) and Noah Buis (Tanner). He is further survived by his siblings: Grace Van Brunt of Mesa, Arizona; Gloria Von Holtum (Paul) of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and Roger Huisman (Linda) of Slayton, Minnesota; sisters-in-law Letty Huisman of St. Michael, Minnesota, and Vonnie Huisman of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margaret Huisman; his beloved wife, Karon Huisman; his son, Marty Huisman (January 21, 2022); his brothers Marv and Peter Huisman; his sister Louise Kuhl; and brothers-in-law Darwin Van Brunt and Stan Kuhl. Duck taught us all strong values and character traits. His legacy will live on in the family he loved deeply and the many lives he touched.

Donald "Duck" Carl Huisman

January 23, 1946 - June 24, 2026