Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1953
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Douglas Hanes Obituary
Feb 14, 1953 - Feb 9, 2025
Age 71, of North Tonawanda, passed away at home on February 9, 2025, after living a full and meaningful life. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.Doug's legacy is rooted in his dedication to public service. He was a proud member and former president of Gratwick Hose #6 for 54 years, and president of Niagara County Volunteer Fireman's Association, where he demonstrated leadership and commitment to his community. He also served as Assistant Emergency Manager for the city of North Tonawanda. His contributions extended to the E. M. Cotter Conservancy and the Volunteer Firemen's Benevolent Association.Doug was passionate about many things, including his work as a self-taught photographer. For 47 years, he served as the Director of Medical Photography at Buffalo General Hospital. A passionate HAM radio operator, Doug found joy in communicating with people around the world. He was a dedicated husband for 44 years to Christine A. Hanes (Nosbisch), and a loving father to Brian (Lindsey) Hanes and Kelly (Bobby) Weinreber. He was incredibly proud of his grandchildren-Carter, Corbin, Renin, and Caius Hanes-and will be missed by his granddogs, Sarge and Tank. Doug was the brother of Mike (Doris) Hanes. He was born in North Tonawanda to the late Norman and Norma Hanes. A celebration of Doug's life will be held on Saturday, February 15th, beginning at 10 AM at Gratwick Hose #6, 110 Ward Road, North Tonawanda. Light refreshments will be served following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Fire Boat E. M. Cotter Conservancy, Inc., PO Box 247, Bowmansville, NY 14026, or to St. Mark Lutheran Church, 1135 Oliver Street, North Tonawanda, NY 14120. Condolences may be shared at FrettholdFuneralHome.com.
Memories and Condolences
for Douglas Hanes
Mary Ann Snyder, RN
March 17, 2025
With sincere sympathy to Doug's family. So sorry I missed the obituary. I consider myself fortunate have met and worked with Doug at Buffalo General Hospital. He helped solve a mystery about my cat, Meg. Meg and I made countless car trips to southern Ohio to visit family. On the way home as if by magic, Meg would wake up just before we reached the NY State Line. Doug said, "She (Meg) smells the lake." Rest in peace my friend.
Ron Harms
February 20, 2025
Oh, man. What an awesome guy. I knew him since we were kids back in Spruce School. I'll never forget the times when our class would meet up together after dinner on a school night at Spruce field and Doug would let us peak through his telescope while he would share his knowledge about the stars and planets. May our Lord and Savior Jesus comfort his family and friends as they go through this sorrowful time.
Carrie Frank
February 14, 2025
Doug was a stalwart at BGH! He knew everyone and supported all the clinical research and friendship gathering/fundraising.
Always a smile and ready with a click of the lens! I have many great photo memories to his credit!
My sympathies to his family, firehouse and other friends. Lost an all around great guy!
Carrie Frank, BGH & Kaleida
Denise Lucas
February 13, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the Hanes Family . I met Doug years ago at Buffalo General Hospital. I learned that he was generous, funny, caring and a friend to many. He will be missed. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
How you can show support
Diane Byrne
February 12, 2025
Chris, I'm so sorry for your family's loss. Will keep you in my prayers
Kathy Goff
February 12, 2025
Kelly I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you my friend. Xoxo
Roxane Amborski
February 12, 2025
He was an incredible man, loved by many throughout Buffalo General, he taught me the lean forward pose to look better in pictures! Blessings to his family
Hayley Cych
February 12, 2025
I knew Doug from Buffalo General. He was always nice and made me laugh. He took great pictures. Condolences to his family.
Dave Krieman
February 12, 2025
There are no words to describe the depth of Doug's commitment to public service in Niagara County, North Tonawanda, or "The Cotter". His talent as a photographer was outstanding. His dry humor was appreciated by all. But most importantly, he was a friend who will be missed, but remembered. RIP, my friend. Fly high!
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results
Make a Donation
in Douglas Hanes's name
Memorial Events
for Douglas Hanes
Funeral services provided by:
Fretthold Funeral Home, Inc.1241 Oliver Street, North Tonawanda, NY 14120
How to support Douglas's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Douglas Hanes's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
