Gary F. Hanke, age 80, of Loretta, WI died Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Marshfield Medical Center in Ladysmith, WI.

Gary Frederic Hanke was born November 1, 1939 in Eau Claire, WI, the son of Norman and Florence (Smith) Hanke. He grew up and attended schools in Eau Claire, graduating from Eau Claire Memorial High School. September 24, 1959 Gary enlisted in the US Army and served until September 18, 1962. He married Mary Conroy in 1964 and had a son and daughter before divorcing in 1969. Gary was united in marriage to Judith Leighton on May 28, 1977 and they had a daughter Rebecca Colleen. Judi and Gary just celebrated 43 years of marriage. He was a machinist at American Motors, Gorton’s, J.I. Case, Saunders, and St. Croix Rods, LTD, before retiring in 2001. Gary served on the VFW Post #394, was a volunteer fire fighter for several years and was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Draper.

He is survived by his wife Judi; son Michael Hanke; daughter Rebecca Morton and Michelle Schroyer; step-daughters Cyndee and Lisa Cook; seven grandchildren, three great grandchildren; brother Mark (Ellaine) Hanke; sisters Joyce Belkola and Judy Edwardsen; numerous nephews & nieces.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Norman & Florence; brother Ronald (Dorothy) Hanke, William Hanke; and sister Rebecca (Michael) Rice.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, October 2, 2020 at 12:00 noon at Zion Lutheran Church in Winter. Pastor Terri Blomberg will officiate. Military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #394 and Winter WACEK-Slattery American Legion Post #303. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.

Last Update: Sep 28, 2020 5:38 pm CDT