Richard R. Haneckow

Richard R. Haneckow, known affectionately to family and friends as Dick, passed away on September 22, 2026, in Rogers City, Michigan, the same beloved town where his life began. He was 97 years old. 

Born on December 28, 1928, in Rogers City to Richard Haneckow and Dorothy (Friedrich) Menthon, Dick grew up with a deep affection for his hometown and boyhood neighborhood. After finishing school at Rogers City High School, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army. In December of 1949, he began his long career at General Motors, dedicating more than three decades of faithful work before retiring in September of 1985. 

Above all, Dick was a devoted family man. He treasured time spent with his loved ones, whether tending to his garden, camping under the open sky, or enjoying a round of golf. An avid reader with a curious mind, he also appreciated life's simple pleasures, including a cool beer at the end of the day. In 2012, he returned to his cherished Rogers City, where he happily lived out the remainder of his years. He was a member of Rogers City Peace Lutheran Church and a life member of the VFW Post 607. Among his fondest memories were his trips to Arizona in the company of his daughter Sheryl, his sister Del and her husband John, and his brother Byron and his wife Penny. 

A man of steadfast Christian faith, Dick served as a deacon in his church in Sterling Heights and remained deeply involved in his church community throughout his life. His devotion to God was matched only by his devotion to his family, especially as a loving grandfather and great grandfather.

 Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lillian; his parents, Richard and Dorothy; his brothers Guy and Kim; his sisters Carole, Chris, and Delphine; and his grandson, Geoff Haneckow. He is survived by his daughters, Sheryl Haneckow of Harbor Springs, Michigan, Chris Lenay (Kevin) Bumstead of Sault Ste Marie Michigan, his son, Gregg (Carole) Haneckow of Warren, Michigan; his brother, Byron (Penny) Haneckow of Klamath Falls, Oregon; his granddaughters, Caterina (Marco) Palazzolo of Gloucester, Massachusetts, and Rachele (Preston) Curtis of Warren, Michigan; and his great-grandchildren, Salvatore and Luisa Palazzolo of Gloucester, Massachusetts. 

Dick's family finds comfort in the promise of his faith, trusting that he now rests in the eternal peace he so faithfully sought. His warmth, devotion, and quiet strength will be remembered and deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Visitation will be Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM, with a Military Tribute at 5:45 PM by VFW Post 607 followed by a Prayer Service at Hentkowski Funeral Home. Visitation will continue Monday at Peach Lutheran Church from 10:00 AM until the 11:00 AM Funeral.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Hospice of Michigan or VFW Post 607.