Obituary of Lawrence Hanke

Lawrence Francis Hanke, age 83, of Tomahawk, went home to be with his Lord peacefully at his home on Monday, November 12, 2018 under the care of his daughter, Brenda, dear friends - Heidi Merwin & Gerry Johnson & Ministry Home Hospice.

Larry was born on September 5, 1935 in Antigo to Alphonse & Marie (Draeger) Hanke. When Larry was very young, his family moved to Tomahawk. He attended Tomahawk schools and was a Tomahawk High School Graduate. Lawrence served with the United States Army from 1955-1957 and was stationed in Germany. During Larry’s working career, he worked throughout the state of Wisconsin at various developmentally disabled living centers, including – Mendota and Northern Center in Chippewa Falls. He also worked at Camp McNaughten in Lake Tomahawk and also served as the director of maintenance at a health care facility in St. Paul. Lawrence moved back to Tomahawk 25 years ago to his childhood home. He loved hunting and fishing. Larry was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Tomahawk VFW, American Legion & Am-Vets. Over the years, Larry has helped raise thousands of dollars for the Tomahawk Backpack Program.

Lawrence is survived by two daughters – Betty (Charlie) Enright, of Rockton, IL & Brenda Peterson, of Tomahawk; 4 sons – Barry Hanke, of Chippewa Falls, Michael (Keri) Hanke, of Chippewa Falls, Mitchell (Kathleen) Hanke, of Appleton & Al (Jan) Dillman, of Eau Claire; sister – Donna Mae Imig, of Tomahawk; and former wife – Patricia Peterson-Hanke, of Lake Nokomis. Larry is further survived by 9 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and two great friends – Gerry Johnson & Heidi Merwin. He is preceded in death by his parents, grandson – Mikkel & two infant siblings – Betty & Bobby.

The Mass of Christian Burial with military rites for Lawrence “Larry” Hanke will take place at 10:00AM on Monday, November 19, 2018 at St. Mary Catholic Church. Fr. Louis Maram Reddy will officiate. Visitation will take place on Sunday, November 18 from 4:00PM until the time of the rosary service at 6:30PM. Visitation will continue on Monday at the church from 9:00AM until the time of Mass at 10:00AM. Burial will take place at Queen of Peace Cemetery, in Antigo.

Krueger Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. You may view the full obituary and leave online condolences at www.kruegerfamilyfuneral.com