John "Hank" Hancher

John "Hank" Hancher was born on May 28, 1951, in Arlington, Virginia, the youngest of four sons of Joseph William Hancher Jr. and Lucille Boyd Cofer Hancher. His parents had hoped for a daughter to name Catherine, but fate had other plans. Instead, in 1979, he met Cathrine-known as Katt-when interviewing her for a job. They married after less than six months of dating and shared 45 wonderful years together, traveling extensively across the United States and beyond. Their adventures took them from the pyramids of Giza to the landscapes of Europe and, most recently, on a long tour of the North Sea.

A devoted baseball fan, Hank followed the Washington Senators before becoming a steadfast supporter of the Washington Nationals. He marked his winters by counting down to the day pitchers and catchers reported for Spring Training. His family joked that he only had half a brain-the other half belonging to his like-minded daughter Kelsey-and that his preferred forms of discipline included lectures on vulcanization and playing Irish music.

Hank built a successful 40-year career in the hotel industry, which led his family to live in various places across the country before settling back in Northern Virginia in 1998. There, he enjoyed 25 years watching his family thrive and celebrating the Nationals' long-awaited World Series victory. In 2023, he and Katt retired to Midlothian, Virginia.

On March 10, 2025, Hank passed away in Midlothian, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his wife Katt; brothers Joseph William III "Bill" (Betty), Robert Harley "Bob," and Boyd Thomas "Tom" (Jean); daughters Cathrine "Katie" (Keith), Lacey (Nick), and Kelsey (James); and three grandchildren. He cherished his lifelong friendships with the West Party and cared deeply for all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A Memorial Celebration will be held on May 26th, Memorial Day, from 11am-2pm at Algonkian Park in Sterling, VA, Picnic Shelter 2. Please contact Katt if you need more information.