BRO. ROBERT EDWARD HANSS S.M. died in the service of the Blessed Virgin Mary on July 10, 2022, at the age of 88 and with 66 years of vowed life. He was born in St. Louis, MO. on August 17, 1933, the son of Joseph E. Hanss and Margaret Mary (McNamara) Hanss.
Bro. Hanss first met the Marianists at McBride H S in St. Louis. While making his First Vows on September 8, 1955, in Galesville, WI., and pronouncing his Perpetual Vow in St. Louis, MO. on July 19, 1959, he first studied at Rolla School of Mines in St. Louis, MO., earning a BS in Mining and Geology in 1954, prior to entering the Marianist Novitiate. Later, he studied Geophysics at Washington University in St. Louis, MO., completing his PhD in 1965. Br. Robert went on in later years to do post-doctoral studies at both Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA., and Wayne State University in Detroit MI. At one point, he was called upon by NASA to analyze rock samples brought back from the moon by Apollo astronauts.
Brother Robert was a beloved teacher, professor, geologist, missionary, novice master and community director. While devoting much of his life to the classroom, he felt particularly blessed by the years he spent in parish ministry – work that brought him in close touch with the poor and gave him a new “way to know Jesus.” By the early 1980s, Brother Robert discerned that he was being called to a ministry outside the classroom which he would pursue in earnest by heading to Mexico in 1985. He lived there for the next 25 years. . He was open to go wherever he was sent. Then due to Alzheimer’s, he carried a heavy cross of diminishing health, bearing it with peaceful acceptance for many years. We are sure our Blessed Mother welcomed him home with love and gratitude for serving her with the gift of his life. May he rest in peace.
He had a brother, Eugene (deceased) and is survived by his sister Elaine (Olson). He has two nieces and three nephews: Keith, Krista, Paul, Katie and Bob.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Marianist Mission, Mt. St. John, 4435 East Patterson Road, Dayton, OH 45430-1033.
Funeral Arrangements: Monday, July 18, 2022, 6:30 PM Private Viewing & 7:00 PM Rosary (for Marianists and family) at the Marianist Residence Chapel; and Tuesday, July 19, 2022, 9:15 AM Viewing & 10:00 AM Mass at Assumption Chapel (St. Mary’s University). Burial will be in the Marianist Cemetery immediately following the Mass.
Due to COVID-19 concerns, no reception will be held.
Thank you for wearing your face mask.
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