DAVID HENGST

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend David Hengst passed away on May 22, 2023, in the presence of his children and wife of 31 years, Debbie. “Junior” as he was known to many was born in Austin on Nov. 25, 1952, grew up in Eagle Lake with his parents and three sisters, and spent time with his grandparents in Plum. David’s career with Tenneco Oil took him to various towns in Texas and New Mexico before he and his first wife Pam moved back to Eagle Lake with their three young children - Dustin, Dean, and Joy. Years later, David married Debbie, gained another son, Ethan, and they ultimately settled in Cat Spring. In the 1980s, he purchased Austin Amusements and proceeded to drive countless miles through Southeast Texas listening to George Strait, Gary Stewart, the Bee Gees, and the Eagles, while turning the business into a success before retiring in 2016.

Retirement brought travel and new adventures for David and Debbie, including a long-awaited trip to Key West. He also enjoyed family trips when his children were young, and returned to this when they became adults, and his grandchildren were born. He took his role as “Gooba” to his two young grandchildren seriously, ensuring it included not only frequent visits and family travel, but also rides on his tractor and gator as well as lessons on how to feed and pet his cows. He enjoyed animals, not only having cattle for years but also horses and dogs. David also enjoyed experimenting with food, especially while using a grill or smoker. Memorable dishes include turducken one holiday and attempts to roast entire hogs at his annual Memorial Day party. Prior to his passing, David spoke fondly of his annual party, which he hosted for over 30 years.

David was a consistent and supportive presence in the lives of his friends and family. Loved ones that have paved the way for David include his son Dustin and parents David and Agnes. Those that will miss David until they see him again include his wife Debbie, son Dean and his wife Jenny, daughter Joy, son Ethan, and his grandchildren Ryan and Julia. He will further be missed by his sisters and their husbands - Frances and Fulton Dromgoole, Tricia and Forest English, and Annette and Skipper Lee - as well as numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Visitation began at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 27, 2023, at Eagle Lake Funeral Home followed by funeral services at 2 p.m.