Robert E. Hanke's Obituary
Robert E. Hanke, 89, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2016 at Heritage Park, Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late William and Esther (Freese) Hanke. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, New Haven. The US Army Air Corp veteran served his country in World War II and was a member of American Legion Post 330. He retired in 1979 as the owner and operator of Hanke’s Motor Aid after 40 years.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joan; children, Frank Hanke and Richard (Christine) Hanke both of Fort Wayne, Donald (Sharon) Hanke of Hamilton Lake, John (Gretchen) Hanke of New Haven, and Teresa (Greg) Lake of Auburn; 15 grandchildren; and 20 great grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, William Hanke, Gladys Heckman, and Catherine Grunewald.
Mass of Christian Burial is 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 943 Powers St., New Haven with calling one hour prior. Father Bill Sullivan officiating. Calling is also 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven with vigil service at 3:30 p.m. Burial in the church cemetery with military honors. Preferred memorials are to Masses, St. John’s Catholic School, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
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