Leo J. Hackett

Leo J. Hackett, age 93, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at home Friday, June 16, 2023 in Hastings, MN.

Leo Jerome Hackett was born on January 12, 1930 to John and Christina (Stoffel) Hackett in Faribault, MN. After high school he enlisted into the U.S Army where he was a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. During his time in the service, he was set up on a blind date by his friends where he met his wife of 69 years, Arolyne. They wrote letters back and forth with each other during their three year courtship while he was finishing his enlistment before getting married in 1954. He later was employed with Williams Pipeline Company where he worked for 42 years. After retirement, Arolyne and Leo did a lot of traveling together and was able to visit most of the United States. He enjoyed spending time at the lake house in Breezy Point, MN, farming, and taking care of his animals. His deep love for the Minnesota State Fair and his Minnesota Vikings did not go unnoticed. Leo was a very devoted father and husband, his family truly was everything to him. He loved holiday gatherings because everyone was together under one roof and he cherished the time he spent with his family.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Diane; both parents; 5 brothers and 1 sister.

Leo is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Arolyne; children, Susanne (Phil Nuccio), Mark, Cheryl Nicolai, Michelle, Robert, Jean (Henry) Hoeft, Laurie (Andrew) Ambrose; 11 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and many friends and relatives.

In lieu of flowers Leo's family requests donations to your local animal shelter.

A visitation will be held Thursday, June 22, 2023 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m on Friday, June 23, 2023 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Hastings, MN with a visitation starting one hour prior. Burial will be at Lakeside Cemetery following the service on Friday.