Thief River Falls – Donavin Hemp, 49, of Thief River Falls passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at his residence.
Donavin Scott Hemp was born on August 19, 1975, to Dean and Debra (Veselka) Hemp at Northwest Medical Center in Thief River Falls. He was raised in Thief River Falls, where he attended Mark Twain Elementary and Franklin Middle School before graduating from Lincoln High School in 1997.
Donavin worked at the ODC Building from 1994 until 2022, where he took pride in sorting parts for Arctic Cat, organizing papers, and assembling survival kits. His dedication and hard work were evident throughout his career.
He had a passion for sports and entertainment, enjoying bowling, watching wrestling matches, MMA boxing, and hockey. He especially loved attending Norskies hockey games and participating in activities with the team. His enthusiasm for sports brought him joy and connection with those around him.
Donavin shared a special bond with his beloved cat, Abby, who was a cherished companion in his life. He was fondly known as “Big D” and “Johnson” by those in his life.
He is survived by his mother, Debra (Larry Eurek) Hemp; brother, Davin (Bobby Jo) Veselka; nephews, Devin (Sami Jo) Veselka, Aaron (Lexi) Veselka, and Gibby (Shae Hernandez) Rodriguez; nieces, Gabriel (Barette Boutain) Bolton, Maddison Hernandez, and Kami (Casen Jewell) Hernandez; great-nephews, Kaden Veselka, Clayton Veselka, Declan Rodriguez, and Finley Jewell; great-nieces, Daeva Veselka and Blakely Rodriguez; aunts and uncles, Danny (Joni) Veselka, Elaine (Lorne) Stromland, Darlene Veselka and Dean Sletten, Diane (Art) Moen; as well as many other relatives and friends.
Donavin was preceded in death by his father, Dean Hemp; grandparents, Ellen and Sylvester Hemp and Christine and Donald Veselka; uncle, David Veselka; sister-in-law, Becky Veselka; and many other beloved relatives.
Donavin’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May he rest in peace.
A visitation will be held from 2–4 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, on Friday, March 7, 2025.
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