John R. Hanna
John Hanna lived a life in service to others and died at the age of 95 on December 28, 2018 at CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center.
Born in Brainerd, Minnesota on January 1, 1923 to the Late William and Emma (Tougas) Hanna. John graduated from Brainerd High School and Brainerd Junior College, eventually earning a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Minnesota. Like most men of the greatest generation his education was interrupted by World War II. John joined the Navy and became an aviator and officer before age 21. He continued serving though the Naval Reserve after the war.
Following graduation he took a job in power production with the Toledo Edison Company where he continued to work in various capacities until he retired after 35 years. He left Toledo in 1979 moving to Defiance to oversee electrical production for northwest Ohio. Prior to moving John was responsible for managing the Water Steam Production building. Earlier this year he was provided a private tour of that newly restored facility.
John married Joyce McDonough in 1951. Together they raised five children. Patrick (Rae Ann) Hanna, Michael Hanna, Robert (Karen) Hanna, Mary (Clint) White, William (Bridgett) Hanna and James (deceased). John delighted in visits with their 8 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Joyce died in early 2017 and John's parents and only brother, William Edward, also predeceased him.
John Hanna gave more than most. Because his blood type was A positive, he was a consistent blood donor for more than 60 years. He was Deputy Sheriff in Lucas County. John's life in Defiance was of constant service. A life long member of the Lion's Club, a member of the Defiance Elks, a 4th Degree Knights of Columbus member, as well a leader in both Boys and Girl Scouts. John was recognized as the initial Volunteer of the Year by the Defiance Hospital Auxiliary for his Lifeline service.
John voluntarily installed emergency response telephone Lifeline systems for more than 25 years. when he and Joyce wintered in Arizona they and their friends would reach out to fruit farms and deliver fresh food to food banks, as well as building homes and Habitat for Humanity. Theirs were lives devoted to others.
John and Joyce served as greeters at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 510 Jackson Ave. in Defiance, Ohio, where funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 2nd 2019 at 11:00 a.m. Donations to any of the many groups in which John was involved would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences to the family may be shared at www.lawsonroessner.com
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Services to celebrate the life of John R. Hanna, 95, of Defiance, will be 11:00 Saturday, February 2, 2019 at St. John Catholic Church 510 Jackson Ave. Defiance.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 - 11:00 am Saturday, at St. John Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to any of the many groups in which John was involved.
"Until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand."
Condolences may be shared at www.lawsonroessner.com
Visitation
FEB
2.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
St. John Catholic
510 Jackson Ave.
Defiance, OH, 43512
Mass of Christian Burial
FEB
2.
11:00 AM (EST)
St. John Catholic
510 Jackson Ave.
Defiance, OH, 43512