Donroy Hafner

Born on November 26, 1936, in Austin, Texas, Donroy dedicated his life to serving others through education, faith, family, and community involvement. His impact on countless students, educators, friends, and family members will be felt for generations.

Donroy is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Judith Hafner; his daughter, Susan Rose and her husband, Chris Tolander; and his son, David Hafner and his wife, Brandy Hafner. He was a proud grandfather to Zachary Rose and his wife, Emma Janzen; Paden Rose and his wife, Melanie Rose; Jackson Hafner; and Caroline Hafner. He was also blessed with two great-grandsons, Oliver Rose and Owen Rose. Donroy is further survived by his brother, Dudley Hafner and many close nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Julie Brash (Hafner); his parents, Edna Sue and Hans Hafner; and five siblings.

His work ethic started at an early age, working at Checker Front Grocery Store, where he would eventually meet his future spouse, Judy. A lifelong champion of public education, Donroy earned his bachelor's degree from The University of Texas and later received his master’s degree from The University of Wisconsin. His educational career began in Austin, where he served simultaneously as principal and sixth-grade teacher at Govalle Elementary School. He went on to spend the majority of his professional life with Region 13 Education Service Center, where he diligently served as Deputy Director for 31 years. Donroy also was very proud to have served in the Marine Reserves, where he enlisted at age 17 with his brother Dudley and served for 13 more years simultaneously with his studies and education career.

Even after retirement, Donroy's passion for service continued. He could not stay away from work long. He worked for the State of Texas, helping develop grant proposals and curriculum for the Texas Youth Commission, further demonstrating his commitment to improving opportunities for young people throughout the state.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Donroy's faith was the foundation of his life. He and Judy were faithful members of Redeemer Lutheran Church for nearly 60 years. Throughout those decades, he served the congregation in numerous ways, touching many lives through his dedication and compassion. Among his most cherished ministries was the Homeless Breakfast Project. Through countless early mornings spent shopping, cooking, and serving, Donroy helped provide thousands of meals to those in need, embodying his belief that service to others was both a privilege and a calling. As a further testament to his love of family, Donroy took on the project of mapping a family tree. He was very proud to share his findings and connect with many long-lost family members over the years.

Sports were another lifelong passion. Throughout his adult life he enjoyed playing racquetball, softball, basketball, and even an adult soccer team that became opportunities for him to create fellowship and strengthen friendships. A devoted Texas Longhorn fan, Donroy treasured the opportunity to attend back-to-back Rose Bowl games which he attended with his son and grandsons. Yet his greatest joy in sports came not from watching, but from participating and mentoring others. Drawing from his roots in education, he enthusiastically coached Little League baseball and youth soccer, building friendships that lasted a lifetime. Family and friends alike often joked that Donroy must have attended hundreds of baseball games over the years.

Later in life, Donroy discovered a love for golf, becoming an active member of Balcones Country Club. Though he did not begin playing until his sixties, he quickly developed both skill and passion for the game. Many treasured friendships were formed on the golf course. Among his proudest accomplishments were scoring his first and only hole-in-one at age 84 and achieving the remarkable feat of shooting his age at 82, an achievement appreciated by golfers everywhere.

Those who knew Donroy will remember his unwavering positivity, kindness, humility, and generous spirit. He exemplified what it means to live a life of service. Whether supporting his family, serving his church, mentoring educators, coaching young athletes, or helping those in need, Donroy consistently placed others before himself.

His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the church he faithfully served, and countless educators and children across Texas whose lives were enriched by his dedication to public education. Donroy's life was a testament to faith, service, and love, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A service followed by a reception will take place at Redeemer Lutheran Church (1500 W Anderson Ln, Austin TX 78757) on Saturday October 24th at 10:00am. In honor of Donroy's lifetime commitment to education and his love of sports, please feel welcome to wear your school colors.