Fred Edward Hanus

Hanus, Fred E.
A Life Well Lived
Fred Edward Hanus, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home in Minnetonka on March 28, 2025, surrounded by his wife and children. Born in Minnetonka, MN on May 1, 1937, to Gladys (Plihal) Hanus and Adolph Hanus, Fred lived a life defined by dedication, service, and a deep love for his community.
Fred married Susan (Weinard) on August 8, 1959, beginning a 65-year marriage filled with love, adventure, and shared accomplishments. Together, they raised three children: Debra (Jayson) Dammen, David, and Robert (Shauna) Hanus. Fred was also a proud grandfather to Ashley (Ryan) Berg, Alexandra (Kevin) Orr, Katie Hanus, and Anna Hanus, and a great-grandfather to Willow, Quinn, Madison, and Thomas Jay.
Preceding him in death were his brothers James, Donald, and Daniel Hanus; nephews Dale and Daniel Hanus; brother-in-law John Weinard Jr.; and sister-in-law Florence Hanus Dockendorf.
Fred's roots in Minnetonka ran deep. In 1949, his parents founded Hanus Sleigh Rides, a family business that Fred and his brother Jim continued for 25 years. They expanded into growing and selling produce, including sweet corn and raspberries, which they sold to local grocery stores and from their stand at Hwy 7 and Minnetonka Blvd.
A member of one of the first graduating classes of Minnetonka High School in 1955, Fred went on to purchase three school buses, founding Hanus Bus Co. with Susan, his brother James, and his sister-in-law Florence. The company expanded to operate three locations with over 200 buses, serving the western suburbs for more than 36 years.
Fred's commitment to his community extended beyond business. He served as a councilmember for the City of Minnetonka for over 25 years and was a member of Minnetonka Lutheran Church for more than 50 years. His love for Minnetonka was evident in his dedication to its schools, parks, and the scenic paths winding through the city. Fred played a key role in realizing the dream of Bennett Park, where generations of children and young adults have enjoyed baseball.
Fred and Susan cherished their travels to their cabin in Northern Minnesota and their winters in Arizona with family. They delighted in experiencing the cultures of other countries with their children and grandchildren, sharing these memories with joy.
An enthusiastic card player, Fred and Susan enjoyed playing 500 with their card group or anyone willing to play. Fred's devotion to his family and friends was unmistakable, always ready for the next event.
Fred Edward Hanus's legacy of community service and dedication will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral service 11 AM Saturday (4/5) at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 301 County Road 19, Excelsior with visitation starting at 10 AM. Interment Groveland Cemetery, Minnetonka
Huber Funeral & Cremation Services
Excelsior Chapel 952-474-9595