DAVID STEPHAN HANCHETT

1943 - 2013

GENOA – David Stephan Hanchett, 69 of Genoa, Ill., died March 26, 2013, after fighting a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born July 16, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio to John C. and Maybelle (Fox) Hanchett, he married his lifelong love Michelle Potter and was a devoted father to Jason and Harrison Hanchett.

Dave was employed at The Larkin Center in Elgin and was a valued member of its Leadership Team. Beloved by his employees and clients, Dave managed two key programs at the agency, the outpatient Community Counseling and Services program and the Transitional Skills Center for youth.

Dave's first career was spent at Illinois Youth Center in St. Charles where he worked as a psychologist for 25 years. While Dave loved to learn and obtained two masters degrees, it was his commitment to helping others that was the sum of his career.

His passion, however, was being on the water and whenever possible he could be found sailing, scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, and enjoying nature to it's fullest.

Dave had a creative side including making stained glass and pressed glass. His windows continue to shine with light. Dave loved music especially jazz, and he was an avid dancer, singer and enjoyed playing instruments.

An avid runner, he ran many races including the Chicago Marathon. His last passion, outside his family, was fishing, and he collected nearly every lure, reel and rod that existed, and spent many hours at Bass Pro and Cabela's.

Dave enjoyed food and was often caught by his coworkers, family and wife eating those delicacies he was not supposed to eat. He loved being with his family and he adored any activities where they were involved, even if it was something he didn't want to do.

Dave is survived by his wife, Michelle and his two sons, Jason and Harrison, of Genoa; grandchildren, Cody and Sydney Hanchett; siblings, Brad (Inga) Devereaux and Rod (Susan) Hanchett; two sisters-in-law, Lauralynn Alton and Patty Potter; two brothers-in-law, Doug Alton and Mark Potter; parents-in-law Phil and Laura Potter; as well as many nieces and nephews.

His parents preceded Dave in death.

In honor of Dave, who loved "all things casual," an informal memorial service (please dress casually) is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 12, at the VFW, 311 S. Washington St., Genoa, IL 60135.

Please bring your happy memories and share with those who loved him. If you have a treasured photo of Dave, please bring a copy for his family. We will be sharing memories and listening to his favorite jazz music.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to causes supporting Cancer Research, The Larkin Center (1212 Larkin Ave., Elgin, IL 60123), or a donation to the family for a college scholarship for his young son Harrison.