Ben Hanak

A rosary will be recited and Mass of Christian Burial celebrated 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 13, 2017 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption, with Rev. Paul Hudson as celebrant. Military Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery conducted by the West Veterans Honor Guard.

Ben was born on November 20, 1951 in Waco, to Ben and Evelyn Hanak. He graduated from Sam Houston High School in 1970 and served in the United States Marine Corps in honor and memory of Bob Wood. He worked as a carpenter and roofer for many years before working in the Maintenance Department at the Mansfield ISD. Bennie retired from the MISD in January of 2013.
Bennie could build anything and do it well. He was an avid reader. He was always available to help anyone in need. He had such a loving heart. He made a difference to so many people and this world is better because he lived in it. Bennie faced his death with stoicism, acceptance, and bravery. He was a Christian and we will be reunited with him in Paradise someday.

Ben was preceded in death by his son, Johnnie Hanak, his father, Ben Hanak, his brothers-in-law, Bob Wood, Ken Douglass and Brad Nelson; and his ex-wife, Teresa Hanak.

He is survived by his mother, Evelyn Hanak of West, his sisters, Shirley Wood of Arlington, Ruby Douglass of Houston, and Debbie (Dan) Lackey of Grand Prairie. He is also survived by his nieces, Lisa Wood of San Antonio, Lauren (Dan) Keck of Middleburg, FL, Meredith (Jonathon) Keck of San Antonio, Diana (Jesse) Crowell of Burleson, and Calista Lackey of Grand Prairie. He is also survived by his nephews, Scott (Ioney) Nelson of Mansfield and Collin Lackey and Alec Lackey, both of Grand Prairie. He is also survived by several great-nieces and great-nephews, many cousins, as well as many friends from the Mansfield ISD, and others.

Pallbearers are Collin Lackey, Jesse Crowell, Jonathon Keck, Otto Hanak Jr., Marvin Matus and Scott Nelson. Honorary pallbearers Dan Lackey, Alec Lackey, Larry Matus, Richard Hykel, Bobby Tlustos, Doug Vrana and Larry Bezdek.

You are encouraged to donate in Bennies memory to the Boy Scouts or to the charity of your choice.