Longtime Canby Resident Donald Houtkooper Dies at 98

Houtkooper, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime HVAC technician, is remembered for his dedication to family, church, and community.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Donald Earl Houtkooper, a 98-year-old former resident of Canby, Minnesota, passed away on February 24, 2026, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Luverne. A Celebration of Life service will be held on March 12, 2026, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church Chapel in Canby, where Houtkooper was a longtime member and served in various roles.

Why it matters

Houtkooper's life exemplifies the values of service, community, and family that were central to many small-town Midwestern residents of his generation. His passing marks the end of an era for Canby and the surrounding region.

The details

Houtkooper was born in 1927 in Deuel County, South Dakota, and grew up on a family farm. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1946 and later worked as an HVAC technician, first for Livingston Heating and Air Conditioning and then for CAS Plumbing and Heating. In addition to his career, Houtkooper was a dedicated member of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, where he served as an usher and on the Board of Deacons and search committee. He also belonged to the Sons of Norway in Canby. Houtkooper was known for his love of fishing, woodworking, and camping with family and friends.

  • Houtkooper passed away on February 24, 2026.
  • A Celebration of Life service will be held on March 12, 2026.

The players

Donald Earl Houtkooper

A 98-year-old former resident of Canby, Minnesota, who passed away on February 24, 2026, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Luverne.

Norma Jean Jacobson

Houtkooper's beloved wife, with whom he made his home in Canby.

Neil Houtkooper

Houtkooper's son, who lives with his wife Pam and their daughters Madeline and Miranda (Ben Bunyan).

Gail Anderson

Houtkooper's daughter, whose sons are Zachary (Afton), Jacob, and Alex (Kristin).

Carol Henneman

Houtkooper's sister.

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The takeaway

Houtkooper's life and legacy reflect the values and traditions that have long defined small-town Midwestern communities like Canby, where he was a pillar of the church, a skilled craftsman, and a devoted family man. His passing marks the end of an era, but his example of service and community engagement will continue to inspire those who knew him.