12/10/2025
James Hauck
Through the sadness of our loss, and the sweetness in the memory of a life well-lived, the children of James Hauck announce his peaceful passing on December 2, 2025. Jim was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was known for his kindness, intellect, sense of humor, a few too many three-putts, and genuine concern for others. Born on May 7th, 1938, in Leola, South Dakota, Jim spent his early years on the family farm and started his schooling in a one room schoolhouse. He graduated from Leola High school, and started college at Northern College in Aberdeen, South Dakota. He transferred to the South Dakota School of Mines and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geological Engineering. He served in the US Army for two years as a specialist in surveying and mapping at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and another two years in the Active Reserve in Aberdeen, SD.
While stationed at Fort Belvoir, he met Barbara Ellen Baird and they were married in 1964 in Bloomington, Indiana. During their over 60 years of marriage, they lived in South Dakota, Kansas, Illinois, and Colorado (moving here in 1981). They raised three children: Daryl, Tanya, and Daniel.
Jim worked for the City of Colorado Springs as a Traffic Engineer for 23 years. He was instrumental in leading many major road construction projects to the benefit of all city residents. He was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Institute of Traffic Engineers (ITE).
Jim attended First Lutheran Church for 44 years where he and Barb enjoyed singing in the choir. They participated in a variety of scripture studies, volunteer activities, and church social activities.
In retirement Jim was an avid golfer and Denver Bronco fan. He was a proud member of the Centurion Lodge, Shriners International; a noble with the Al Kaly Shriner Band, playing multiple instruments including Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Clarinet, and Accordion. In addition to the Al Kaly Shrine band, he played in the Dance Band, German Band, Dixieland Band, Swing Masters Band, and New Horizons Band. He was also a member of the Scottish Rite and supported Shriners Hospitals for Children. He and Barb also enjoyed traveling in their RV around the state of Colorado with Rolling Springs RV club; and around the country visiting family and friends.
Jim spent the last 18 months of his exemplary life at MorningStar Mountain Shadows Assisted Living where he loved visiting Barb, movie nights, music events, and excelled at Poker and Rumicub. He made friends wherever he lived.
He is survived by his beloved children: Daryl Hauck (Amy Lautenschlager) of Albuquerque, NM; Tanya Haight (David) of Gold Hill, OR); Daniel Hauck (Missy) of Albuquerque, NM; grandchildren Nathan, Jayson, Amanda, Grace, Trevor, and India; and recently arrived great-grandson Bear (he was able to enjoy a festive Thanksgiving with four generations present!). He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara, his brother Gerald, and his parents William D. and Frieda M. (Martel) Hauck.
A celebration of life will be held in the Spring at First Lutheran Church, 1515 Cascade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the First Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, or the Shriners Children’s Hospital.
Jim’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of so many who know and loved him.
