It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gary John Hanna, who departed this life on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the age of 77, at the University of Kansas Cancer Center in Kansas City, Kansas.
Born on July 1, 1947, in Manhattan, Kansas, to John Bonar and Evelyn Ruth (Yarrow) Hanna, Gary’s life was a testament to dedication, community service, and unwavering family values.
On August 31, 1974, Gary married the love of his life, Donna Jean Dye, at Olive Hill Church in Jewell County, Kansas. Their union was a beacon of love and partnership, enduring over five decades.
Gary’s professional journey led him to Riley State Bank in 1982, where he served diligently as Vice President of Information Technology and Security. His commitment to the bank and its patrons was evident in every endeavor he undertook.
A man deeply rooted in his community, Gary was an active member of the Riley Lions Club and the Sons of the American Revolution. His passion for youth development shone through his role as a 4-H club leader for the Leonardville Hustlers and his service on the Riley County 4-H Board.
An ardent Kansas State Wildcats fan, Gary rarely missed a football game, cheering on his team with fervor. His hobbies reflected his diverse interests: capturing moments through photography, nurturing his garden, collecting marbles, and indulging his fascination with trains.
Gary’s legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Donna; their children, Stephanie Allen (Leonard) of Hoyt, Jeremy Hanna (Mary) of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Brady Hanna (Lindsay) of Shawnee; and six cherished grandchildren: Hanna Allen, Tyler Hanna, Molly Allen, Steven Hanna, Hailey Hanna, and Henry Hanna.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn Hanna.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home in Riley, with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. Following the funeral will be a burial ceremony at Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center with a meal afterwards at the Presbyterian Church in Riley. The family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the Riley County U.S.D. 378 Foundation, to establish a scholarship fund for future graduating seniors. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
303 S Broadway, Riley, KS 66531
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more