Donald C. McHugh

Donald C. McHugh, age 80, of Butler, passed peacefully on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, resting in the sure hope of eternal life promised through Jesus.

He was born on November 8, 1945, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Alice Johns Hawker and Lawrence McHugh, and was raised in Howe, Indiana.

In 1972, Don married the love of his life, Phyllis Barhydt. In 1988, he found the Lord and went on to live a life rooted in faith.

Don cherished time spent with his family and took great joy in attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and school activities over the years. He especially enjoyed watching Eastside basketball and football games, camping, and attending Michiana Classic Chevy Club events.

Don spent many years as a dedicated truck driver, a profession he took great pride in. He later retired from Elkhart Plating, concluding a 26-year career marked by hard work, reliability, and commitment.

Don is lovingly survived by his wife, Phyllis; his children, Larry McHugh of Butler, Joe McHugh of Elkhart, Tina (Chris) Irons of Middlebury, and Donna (Rodney) Strong of Butler. He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren: Brigette Beckwith, Allison (DJ) Vitali, Haley (Brian) Troyer, Christopher Irons, Ryan Strong, Bryce Strong, Gavin Strong, Amelia Strong, and Leeanna Main. He was also blessed with three great-granddaughters, Brooklyn Beckwith, Adeline Vitali, and Abigail Troyer, who was born twelve hours after his passing.

He is further survived by his siblings: Jean (Duane) Watson of Shipshewana; Pat Burkhead of Sturgis, Michigan; Joyce (Bob) Gerber of Bronson, Michigan; Howard (Loretta) Yoder of LaGrange; and Leonard (Linda) McHugh of Elmira, Michigan, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Don was recently preceded in death by his beloved dog, Cookie; his parents; his sisters, Eleanor Scott, Margaret Dillon, and Joanne Hughes; his brothers, Wayne Yoder, Jake Yoder, Doug Yoder, and Lawrence McHugh; his brother-in-law, Raymond Barhydt; and his sister-in-law, Barbara Kindig.

Don was a longtime member of the Elkhart Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he previously served as Head Deacon, and more recently attended the Wolcottville Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Don demonstrated remarkable dignity and strength throughout his recent illness. The family would like to thank the many wonderful nurses at Parkview Regional Medical Center’s Coronary ICU for their care.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 South Center Street, Auburn. The funeral service will follow immediately at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Donald Greulich officiating.

Burial will take place at Riverview Cemetery in Newville, Indiana.

Pallbearers include, Rodney Strong, Chris Irons, Ryan Strong, Bryce Strong, Gavin Strong and Christopher Irons. 

Memorial donations may be made to Feller and Clark Funeral Home to help with expenses. 

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