veterinarians

Veterinarians at Countryside

Darrell Haeker but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Josh. 24:15
Darrell was born in Council Grove Kansas. While growing up, he was very active in sports and interested in becoming a coach. He later developed a greater interest in veterinary medicine. Darrell obtained his degree in Veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and married Linda while attending college. As a resident of Pella, Iowa, Darrell worked as a large animal doctor. His interest in small animal veterinary science brought him and his family to Saint Joseph. He brought his wife Linda and their three children - Michelle, Scott, and Eric - to Saint Joseph where he started his practice with Dr. Sigars at Avenue Animal Hospital. Upon Dr. Sigars retirement, Darrell, along with Dr. Jerry A. Lafollette purchased the practice and created what is now known as Countryside Veterinary Clinic. In 1973, they moved to their current location on Frederick Avenue. Darrell is a member of Ducks Unlimited, The National Wild Turkey Foundation, and The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Darrell's hobbies include hunting, wine-making, and woodcarving. Darrell and his wife have five dogs and a cat: Sully, a Lab; Molly, a Lab; Spot, a Beagle; Queenie, a Beagle; Daisy, a Beagle; and a cat; Jasmine. He and his wife are very involved in their church, St. Peter Lutheran, in Saint Joseph.

Eric Haeker
Eric, the youngest son of Darrell and Linda, was born in Pella, Iowa and moved with his parents to Saint Joseph shortly after his birth. When Eric was a child he enjoyed all sports in school. His high school favorites were wrestling and football. Eric became interested in veterinary medicine at a young age while accompanying his dad on emergency calls. He obtained his Animal Science degree from Kansas State University, and a short time later obtained his degree in Veterinary Medicine from University of Missouri. Eric married Shelly and they have two boys; Austin and Cody. He joined the family practice at Countryside in 1996. He is a member of Ducks Unlimited, The National Wild Turkey Federation, and The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Eric's hobbies include hunting and raising a variety of animals; dogs, turkeys, chickens, goats and Hereford cattle. Eric and his family are active at Saint Peter Lutheran Church where his parents also attend.

Melanie Barnes
Melanie became interested in animals at a young age while growing up in a small town. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a degree in Veterinary Medicine from University of Missouri. Melanie and her husband Chris moved to St. Joseph and joined Countryside in 2007.