Mark Allen Hanke

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mark Allen Hanke, aged 70, who departed this life on January 12, 2026.

Mark lived a life rooted in love for his family and community, service to his country and a deep appreciation for humor. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he served during the closing years of the Vietnam conflict. He found joy in spending time with his loved ones, enjoying Tootsie Rolls and always cracking a joke.

Mark is survived by his children: Michelle Hanke, Sarah Long (Erik), Terra Hanke (Blaine Overton) and Tyler Hanke (Lindsey). He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by his sisters, Faith Daley, Hope Houston (Phil Wey) Melody Hooper and brother, Keith Hanke Jr. Mark was preceded in death by his father Keith Hanke Sr., and his mother Marlene Chambers.

He was a proud Des Moines firefighter having graduated in the first class of EMTs in the early 1980s. He served in that role until he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Following his diagnosis, Mark continued his lifelong commitment to service by working at Job Service of Iowa helping veterans find meaningful employment. He was later promoted to Assistant State Director of Veterans Employment and Training with the U.S. Department of Labor, a role he served in during Operation Desert Storm until his medical condition necessitated retirement.

Before his illness, Mark found great joy in tending a large vegetable garden where he grew pumpkins that took up half the backyard and baking pies from his apple trees. He was a member of First Church of the Open Bible in Des Moines and his faith was an important part of his life. He was proud of his children, grand-children and their faith in God.

Mark will be remembered for his generous heart, quick wit and unwavering dedication to family, faith and service. His legacy of love, laughter and quiet strength will live on in all who were blessed to know him. He faced his long battle with Multiple Sclerosis with courage, resilience, and grace, never losing his sense of humor or his love for others. Though he will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing he is now at peace, resting in God’s eternal care.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Ernst Funeral Home, 80 NE Dartmoor Drive, Waukee. Mark will be laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in a private family ceremony. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to: American Red Cross (www.redcross.org) Mark's memorial service will be live-streamed and can be viewed via: www.facebook.com/ernstfuneralcremation

Ernst Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Waukee has been entrusted with Mark's final arrangements.