- Born on: October 4, 1946
- Departed on: July 19, 2025
- Resided in: Cedar Rapids, IA
Rev. James F. Hanke, Jr.
I extend my deepest sympathy to Mim and the family. I was lucky enough to have worshipped at Waterloo First when Jim was there. He was an awesome man who helped restore my spiritual sole. God has certainly gained another angel. Do you suppose he entered Heaven by doing a somersault?
So sorry to hear about Rev Hanke. He was our pastor in Manchester and married my husband and I in 1984. He was a wonderful man and his sermons were always inspirational. He treated everyone well and his integrity shown through. My prayers for his family and friends.
I knew Jim from his time in Sioux City. I always looked forward to our visits and sharing stories about many things. He was a true friend and mentor to me and too many. May his family hold the memories and experiences that they had with him in their hearts and they will always have him near. Rest in peace dear friend, see you on the other side!
Mim & Family, my heart goes out to you all as you grieve and celebrate Jim. I am forever in debt to him as he "took me under his wing" as a young pastor. Mim, you and Jim mentored me in many ways and shared your lives so freely. While the ministry journey has been different than what I had hoped, Jim was a role model for me and I continue to be influenced by his spirit of joy and realism. He and I share a passion for care of creation and there is a donation in his honor through the National Parks Foundation. Please know I am with you in prayer and spirit as the new normal on this side of eternity comes into being for you all. Grace, Peace and Mercy be yours! Tom Primmer M.Div., OblSB.
Rev. Hanke was my pastor in Dike, Iowa when we were ALL young with young families. Our lives went in different directions but I always kept tabs on his whereabouts with friends in Manchester & later CR District. Jim showed me a joyful & joy filled Ministry I never saw with "church". I vividly remembered the Sunday he jumped over so pew to start a sermon. It was hilarious! Prayers for Mim & family left behind. May you be comforted with sweet memories & feel God's presence.
Mim and Family I have to say I am not ready for this to come. Feels like I have known Jim forever as he has been there from the very beginning of my ministry when I served Arlington and Volga many years after he did. He has been a dear friend, and colleague, and a mentor to me my whole 35 years. You are all in my prayers during this time as you celebrate Jim with smiles and tears.
Jim was larger than life in the best sense. He was a risk taker, a prophet and a healer. He told stories from his heart, and suffered fools at their peril. He loved life! I am ever thankful for his Jeep driving skills that far exceeded by tepid judgement. My life is better for knowing Jim.
Mim and family, we were so saddened to hear of Jim’s death, and wish we could be at his service. We have so many fond memories of time with you both; seems like just yesterday I’d be practicing organ and Jim would sneak in the sanctuary side door and scare the bejabbers out of me! Our prayers are with you all.
