Darrel Robert Hackett

Darrel Robert Hackett passed peacefully in his sleep on October 6, 2026, with the profound knowledge that he was deeply loved.

In June of this year, he celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by his wife Iris and his ever-expanding family. True to form, he marked the occasion, unforgettably, by shredding an “air” guitar to The Beatles. Wherever Darrel was, there was bound to be laughter, a good story, and a memory in the making.

Born in Flint, Michigan, on June 6, 1926, Darrel lived a remarkable century filled with purpose, curiosity, humor, and love. Throughout his life, he was many things: a husband, a father (eventually a great-grandfather), a veteran, an engineer, a teacher, and an attorney. He formally retired from his consulting-attorney career at the age of 97, a testament to both his extraordinary longevity and his sharp mind.

Darrel never stopped learning, creating, or finding things to be passionate about. Among his many interests were restoring classic cars and writing, pursuits that reflected his patience, ingenuity, and endlessly curious nature. He was, in every sense of the word, a powerhouse - bright, determined, witty, and larger than life.

Though his wings were ready, our hearts were not. As Darrel himself once mused, “Strange, how the inevitable can be so surprising.”

Darrel is predeceased by his many siblings, the mother of his children Grace Hackett, and his daughters, Elizabeth Kaiser and Janis Wells.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Iris Hackett, as well as his children: Jaye Katanick (Sheldon), Ivy Glynn (David), Darrel “Buzzy” Robert Hackett II (Susan), Susan Spelker (Frank), and countless other family members and loved ones whose lives were forever enriched by his presence. His legacy will live on in the stories they tell and the laughter and love they share.

Services will be held at Florida National Cemetery 6502 SW 102nd Ave. Bushnell, FL 33513 at 11am on Monday October 12, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Mark’s Greek Orthodox Church at 9926 SE 36th Ave. Belleview, FL 34420. (352) 245-0499. https://www.stmarksgoc.org/give or Veterans Helping Veterans USA, Inc. 2730 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Unit 200. Ocala, FL 34470. (352) 433-2320. https://www.mission1776.org/donate-today