George Henry Hanna, 80 of Valparaiso, passed away on February 4, 2024. He was born on December 1, 1943 in Gary, IN to Paul Wesley and Rita “Faye” (Copeland) Hanna. While George did not receive the type of formal education most of us take for granted, that never stopped him from learning. From his mother teaching him to read, having a tutor, and eventually being able to attend classes with other kids like him as a teen, there was no stopping his curiosity and thirst for knowledge and a place to belong. Eventually, his hard work and determination led him to O.E. where he made friends, participated in many activities such as working and making art, and found his love for bowling in the Special Olympics where he excelled and even won trophies and earned his letter jacket. He took pride in his work at O.E., where he retired from working on the line after 45 years. Wise words from his father that he used to live by were, “a true measure of a man was in his ability to work and contribute.” Through the support of his family, friends, and his determined spirit, he was able to achieve just that. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend to many who will be deeply missed.
Survivors include his siblings: William (Debbie) Hanna and Jan Sible; nieces and nephews: Joanna Bedwell Moon, Ron (Renee) Bedwell, Rob (Carrie) Bedwell, Bill Hendricks, Marc Hendricks, Mike Hendricks, Bill (Chris) Hanna, Michelle (Grant) Andres, and Rebecca Hanna; and many amazing staff and friends, past and present, at O.E. who became family over the years. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Sandra Williams.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a service beginning at 1:00 PM with Pastor Shawn Evans officiating. A private family burial to take place at Adams Cemetery in Valparaiso. Memorial donations may be made to O.E.
GUESTBOOK
I'm going to miss your smiling face and the words you said to me everything you saw me. Bowling will not be the same without you, George. And yes--I do love you. -Paula Myers
Joanna, Ron and Rob: I offer my deepest condolences in the loss of your Uncle George. It’s always hard to lose a family member. May you find comfort and peace knowing that he is in a better place. Prayers for The Hanna Family. -Jeannene Schumacher and Family
