Donald J. Jacklen

Donald “Don” Jay Jacklen, 96, a longtime resident of Hibbing, died Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at the Cook Hospital in Cook, MN. He was born on March 13, 1928, to Christ and Alice (Ganz) Jacklen in Rockford, IL.

He lived in Hibbing for over 60 years and was known for his love of the outdoors and strong ties to the community. He grew up on a farm in Spooner, Wisconsin, and served with the medical corps in the Army National Guard in the early 1950s. Don was employed by Diesel Service and Supply in Minneapolis and Hibbing during his career as a diesel mechanic/ fuel injection specialist. He was a member of the Association of Diesel Specialists and Grace Lutheran Church in Hibbing. Don enjoyed traveling across Canada and the USA, especially with his wife, Helen, whom he married on June 12, 1954, in Shell Lake, Wisconsin. He loved fishing, hunting, and relaxing with a cold beer. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and love for his family and friends.

Don is survived by his children, Kathleen (Melvin Moschler) Jacklen, James (Beth) Jacklen, Thomas (Cindy) Jacklen, and Richard Jacklen; 12 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren with two on the way; along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen Jacklen; siblings, Lloyd Jacklen, Bob Jacklen, Janis Krohn, and Donna Weisert; and nephew, Tim Krohn.

Funeral services for Don will be held at 11 AM on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Grace Lutheran Church of Hibbing. The visitation will be held one hour prior, and Pastor Tim Yearyean will officiate the service. Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery following the service.