Daryl Dean Huber

HURLEY, Wis. - Daryl Dean Huber passed away on July 12, 2014, at Villa Maria Health and Rehab in Hurley, where he was receiving loving care. He was 90 years old.

Daryl, born on the family farm in Williamsfield, Ill., on Sept. 20, 1923, lived an active life, filled with adventure. He worked as a farmer, carpenter, test engineer for Chrysler Outboard Motors, and as a traveling sporting goods salesman and fishing tackle buyer for Jobber.

In his youth, he played Sunday baseball and was invited to try out for the Chicago Cubs. Despite an invitation to training, Daryl passed to fulfill obligations to his family. Besides, at that time "the money wasn't so good," said Daryl.

Despite a farm deferment, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1945. He completed his service at Geiger Field in Spokane, Wash., where he trained veterans returning from overseas in construction.

In 1976, Daryl moved to Mercer to enjoy the beauty and sporting afforded by the Northwoods. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, and an especially good shot with the bow. He enjoyed working with his hands, gardening and was the type of guy who just "couldn't sit still."

Instrumental in developing Mercer as the Loon Capital of the World, he was delighted to be formally recognized by Mercer this past spring. Daryl was also a proud member of the American Legion.

Daryl had two children, Christine and Dennis, with his first wife, Audrey Kneer Huber. Christine preceded him in death, as did his parents, Spencer Daryl Huber and Bernice Fay Thurman; his brother, Rex Huber; his sister, Darlene Weingarten; and second wife, Ann Huber.

Daryl lived his later years with his third wife, Nancy Lugner Huber, who wrote him this cherished poem: "There are lessons of love from the birds and the flowers, whose perfume and song fill the glad summer hours. There are lessons of life as each day turns the page, from the springtime of youth to the frost-time of age."

A celebration of Daryl's life will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Winegar American Legion Post 480 in Presque Isle.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lakeside Memorial Chapel, Wakefield, Mich., Jerald Rocco, owner/manager. Condolences may be expressed at lakesidememorialchapel.com.