Harold "Bud" Hanel Sr.

Harold E. Hanel, Sr., affectionately known as "Bud," passed away peacefully at his residence in Afton during the early morning hours of Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the age of eighty-four.

Bud was one of eight children born to Truman and Esther (Dunn) Hanel. He was born in Afton on May 14, 1941, where he would spend most of his life and form deep roots within the community. In 1961, Bud married the love of his life, Barbara Watters, in Saginaw. Their union was blessed with 45 years of marriage, six children, sixteen grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. Together they built a beautiful life together and leave a wonderful legacy of love and family. Barb preceded Bud in death on December 28, 2006.

Bud dedicated his professional life to working as a truck driver. He spent fifteen years working for Lake and Howell Asphalt before taking a position with the Cheboygan County Road Commission. For another fifteen years, he was responsible for maintaining roads in the Indian River area. After a long and committed career, Bud retired from Cheboygan County's Indian River Garage on August 10, 1994.

A lifelong resident of Walker Township, except for a brief period when he lived in Pontiac, Bud's connection to his community was unwavering. He was a familiar and respected figure throughout the communities of Afton, Indian River and Onaway. He was actively involved in numerous local organizations and took on significant leadership roles. He was a member of the Afton Community Club and the Indian River Fraternal Order of Eagles. His passion for youth in his hometown was evident in his commitment to local sports programs. Bud served as a board member for both Little League and Peewee Football, not only guiding these organizations but also coaching and tirelessly fundraising to ensure their continued success.

A devoted supporter of all Inland Lakes sports, Bud was a longtime member of the Inland Lakes Boosters. His enthusiasm for fundraising was well known, so much so, that his family joked that if Bud approached you, you should be ready to hand over a twenty-dollar bill, as he was always championing a cause or selling raffle tickets to support local athletics. Bud's loyalty, steady encouragement, and deep sense of pride for his Bulldogs left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

Bud was truly an avid outdoorsman with a deep love for hunting. He was actively involved in several outdoor clubs, including the Northern Michigan Beagle Club, Michigan Bear Hunters, and Northern Michigan Coon Hunters. Hunting was not just a pastime for Bud; he cherished his hunting experiences. He loved sharing adventures in the woods of Northern Michigan with his family and friends and even more so, enjoyed the camaraderie that accompanies a good hunt.

Even as his health declined and he was no longer able to join hunts in person, Bud remained at the heart of the action. He became the "home base" for hunters, staying connected through the radio for hours on end. From his home, he provided updates and eagerly awaited news of successful hunts. Bud was quick to call those who had success, always seeking details and celebrating each achievement with genuine excitement, as if he had been out in the field himself.

With a zest for life, anything Bud Hanel did, he did with his whole heart. This wholehearted commitment extended to his faith. Bud was a devout Catholic and a longtime parishioner at both St. Monica in Afton and St. Paul Catholic Church in Onaway. His involvement went far beyond attending Sunday mass; Bud practiced his faith daily and was deeply engaged in church activities. He was a valued member of the St. Paul Knights of Columbus, where he held the distinction of being a third-degree knight and served as Grand Knight for the council. Bud's leadership was evident in his successful efforts leading membership drives, organizing the annual Lenten Fish Fry, and coordinating K of C breakfasts. During times of challenge, Bud relied on his faith and the power of prayer for strength, and he was always grateful for God's gracious blessings throughout his life.

More than anything else, Bud's greatest passion was his family, whom he regarded as his proudest achievement. His loving marriage with Barbara was at the heart of his life, marked by deep devotion and mutual affection. Bud cherished his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather. He was dedicated to nurturing his children, always expressing pride in the individuals they became. He made it a point to instill in them the importance of family, ensuring that those values remained central throughout their lives. Daily calls to his children were a testament to his commitment to staying connected and involved, never letting a day go by without checking in to share in their lives.

Bud's grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and the adoration they felt for him reflected the warmth and guidance he provided. His bond with his siblings was equally strong, and he maintained close relationships with them throughout their lives, reinforcing the ties that bound his family together.

Bud Hanel exemplified a life marked by exceptional character. All who had the privilege of knowing Bud will remember him for his integrity, devotion, and the profound impact he made on those around him.

He leaves his sons, Harold Jr., "Buddy" (Jacki) of Indian River, John (Tammy) of Afton, Wayne (Tonya) of Tower, and Brad (Heather) of Indian River; daughters, Sandy Hanel of Ruskin, Florida and Joyce Hanel (Jeff Geyer) of Afton; his grandchildren and great grandchildren; as well as sisters, Carolyn Appleford and Trudy (Gil) Reynolds; and many nieces and nephews.

Bud was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; sisters, Helen Joyce Benedict, Patricia Hammond, and Beverly LaFave; and brothers, Dale and John Hanel.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Bud at Chagnon Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, with visitation beginning at 4:00 PM and continuing until 7:30 PM. At the conclusion of visitation, the Knights of Columbus will lead the rosary.

The funeral service will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The service will be officiated by Father Donald Geyman and Father Patrick Maher. Interment will take place at Walker Township Cemetery in the spring.

For those wishing to express their sympathy, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Bud's honor to either the Inland Lakes Boosters or St. Paul Catholic Church.