Danny Robert Huckaby

Danny Robert Huckaby

Sparks - Danny Robert Huckaby passed away quietly at the age of 71, on the night of July 21, 2020, in Sparks, Nevada. Danny experienced an aggressive form of cognitive decline that progressed quickly over 3 years. Danny was cared for by his daughter, Dana Huckaby, son-in-law, Ryan Sims, mother, Dee Barlow, brother, Dave Huckaby, sister-in-law (and extra special caretaker and friend), Terri Huckaby, and former spouse, Gretchen Beck. Danny spent his final months in a memory care facility in Sparks, and was under the care of hospice in his final weeks. It is with great sadness that more close friends were unable to visit Danny due to the restrictions of the pandemic.

Danny was born on July 8, 1949, in Ely, Nevada to Robert O. and Delores Huckaby. He was the second child, preceded by sister, Rebecca (Reba and Kirk Poole) and followed by brother, David. Many of Danny's favorite times in life were spent in White Pine County. Several happy childhood memories included time spent with grandparents, Jerry and Becky Nielsen. Danny enjoyed playing sports in his youth, particularly baseball, basketball, and football. Joy and laughter were always evident when Danny spoke of stories from Ely and McGill, where every friend and neighbor had a nickname. Happily, these were things he remembered until the end. He graduated from White Pine High School in 1967, then enlisted in the Army National Guard of Nevada, where he was Honorably Discharged in 1971. Danny pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration at the University of Nevada, Reno, graduating in 1974. He received honors in the field of Economics. He continued as a member of the Air National Guard of Nevada, until he was Honorably Discharged in 1975.

In his professional career, Danny worked as an accountant and controller for various businesses in the Reno/Sparks area, including the Holiday Hotel, Harker & Harker Electrical, and Classic Finish Systems, where he was also a managing partner. He was hardworking and diligent, and made lasting friendships with the men and women with whom he worked. Danny formally retired in 2017.

Danny may be most well-known as a devoted and loving father to daughter, Dana, and son, Adam (died 2013). Danny was tirelessly involved in Adam's activities, from athletics to motocross and (loud) music, and was Dana's never-ending supporter in cheerleading, academic pursuits, and travel. Danny, no doubt, bragged about his children to anyone who would listen. Understandably, Danny was never the same once Adam was gone.

Danny's hobbies in later adulthood included sports, motorcycles, and collecting. He enjoyed spending early evenings at local watering holes with buddies and favorite bartenders. It was no secret that he kept a spotless house and maintained immaculate vehicles. Danny also took great pride in looking after his mother, Dee, who always lived within a few close miles of his home. Danny supported various charitable organizations, including the Children's Cabinet and the Food Bank of Northern Nevada. Danny was a proud native Nevadan.

In addition to the aforementioned family members, Danny is also survived by granddaughter, Rylee Sims, and nephews, Jet Townsend, Lance Huckaby, and Eric Huckaby and their respective spouses and children. Danny also shared a special relationship with Brylee Monroe, who knew him lovingly as Grandpa.

Danny is greatly missed and will forever be in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be arranged when deemed safe for all to attend.