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BORN
1923
DIED
2020
Clemens Hanneken Obituary
December 5, 2020 - age 97 - Clem passed away peacefully with his favorite Rosary in his hand. He is survived by Mary, the love-of-his-life for 65 years, and his devoted children Anne Hanneken-Dessert (Mike), Mark Hanneken, Jane Hanneken, John (Kathy) Hanneken, David (Mary) Hanneken, Joan Hanneken, Sally (Scott) Sachrison, and 15 grandchildren. His entire family is thankful for the love and support from friends, neighbors and caregivers who he always welcomed with a wide smile and trademark greeting of, "How do you do? I do as I please," often followed by a booming laugh.
Born in 1923 to Ben and Mamie Hanneken, Clem spent his formative years on his family farm in Ramsey, Illinois. He went on to study mathematics at Eastern Illinois, while still finding time to play football, baseball and be the President of the Student Council. After graduation, he ultimately earned a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
A devoted Catholic, Clem found his way to Marquette University and was proud to teach many of today's most brilliant minds in a classroom full of curiosity and lightheartedness. (Who says Calculus can't be fun?) To no one's surprise, he eventually won the prestigious "Teacher of the Year" award, and taught at MU for nearly 40 years.
Clem will always be remembered as a patient, faith-filled man who loved his family dearly. In retirement he became a master woodworker, grew world-class tomatoes, solved Sudoku puzzles daily, and fished on Lake Michigan every summer. (Appropriately enough, his boat was called "The Scholarship.") The man knew how to relax, especially while enjoying a "snort" of Early Times Whiskey nearly every evening. Above all, devoting time to his "purdy" wife Mary was always at the top of his list.
Even with failing health, Clem always maintained a happy and content disposition, often saying, "I couldn't be better," which is a lesson for us all. He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, and there will be a celebration of his life Monday, June 7th at:
St. Charles Borromeo Church
3100 W Parnell Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53221
June 7, 2021
10:30 AM
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Clemens Hanneken
5 Entries
Fr Marvin T Knighton
June 3, 2021
Dear Mrs. Hanneken & family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you with the passing of your husband and father. I know it´s been a while since his passing, but I´m glad to see you are finally able to celebrate his life. This pandemic has taken a toll on so many.
It is our faith with Easter, we are reminded that Clem´s "life is simply changed not ended." I hope that aspect of our faith strengthens you now and the days ahead. I hold you in prayer.
Respectfully,
Fr Marv T Knighton
Bernie & Betty Mullenbach
December 29, 2020
Oh where do I start? There are sooo many happy memories with Clem & Mary! We enjoyed their company on fishing trips, camping out, boating, watching fireworks on board in the M. Harbor, fish frys, baseball games, stories, Marys homecooked meals & visits at their house with many many laughs! The get togethers with the O'Conners are the never forgotten parties...The movies & shopping for us women, with all the guys talking sports, politics, jobs, fishing, hunting. Going to church together, playing cards,, or just hanging out enjoying ourselves. The door was always open with smiles all around....what wonderful life we had together.....Thank You Hennekans. We Love you & miss seeing you terribly.
The Mullenbachs
Paul Bankston
December 15, 2020
When I started teaching at Marquette, Clem made me feel at home. His office was just a couple of doors down from mine, and we had many chats, especially about teaching. I'll always remember the chuckle in his voice.
Vincent O'Connor
December 13, 2020
I was saddened to hear that Clem had passed away. My prayers are with his family in this time of their loss. May he Rest In Peace.
Danielle D'Amore Klein
December 13, 2020
What a wonderful person! Such a good example for others. I have such fond memories of him welcoming us into his home during college and beyond, Sally driving his big car and visiting him at the marina. We all adored the professor! My thoughts and prayers are with the whole Hanneken clan.
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