Louise A. Hanko

Louise A. Hanko, age 48, of Medina, passed away on Monday, December 26, 2016 at Barberton Hospital, Barberton, Ohio.

She was born on July 2, 1968 in Lorain. After she graduated from Lorain High School in 1986, she moved to Wood County where she began her career. Louise graduated with her Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences from Bowling Green University and later, obtained her Master's Degree in Social Sciences from the University of Akron. She was extremely dedicated to her work and job and very proud to do what she did. Louise was an Administrator for the Department of Children Services, which was perfect for her because the children, as well as the elderly, were always her main concern and priority. Louise had such a big and caring heart, she truly loved what she did.

If you could not find her hard at work, you'd be able to find her serving in any group, club, committee, board, or organization offered, especially in her home city of Medina. She enjoyed being active throughout her community and was always on the "go". She even held the position of President for two boards at once. Louise worked with the Harvest for Hunger Food Bank as well as with a children's literacy and library program. When she actually found some free time, she loved to read herself. She also enjoyed sports, especially Cleveland sports. She was an avid concert-goer, and even more so, an avid and experienced traveler. Louise was fortunate to travel to so many places in her much-to-brief life. She traveled all over the United States and overseas. The past few years, she was able to take European vacations each year.

She will be dearly missed by her mother, Nancy (nee Shepherd), of Lorain, her 3 brothers; Thomas (Cynthia), of Florence, KY, Joel (Lorie), of Wellington, and John (Lori), of Mentor, nieces; Kellie, of Wellington, Jenell, of Oshkosh, and nephew, Zane, of Florence, KY. She is also survived by her aunts, uncles, and cousins. Louise made many friends throughout her life, and all will miss her greatly, especially two of her longtime and very close friends; Steve Zsinko and Ken Bender.

Louise was preceded in death by her father, Henry J., in 1995, her maternal grandparents; Harry and Lauretta Shepherd and paternal grandparents; Joseph and Kathryn Hanko.

The family held private services. Arrangements were under the care of Dovin Funeral Home, 2701 Elyria Avenue, Lorain.

Donations, in her memory, may be made to the Women's Cancer Research Fund, 60 E. 56th Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10022, or to any charity that would benefit or supports the rescuing animals, which was always near and dear to Louise's heart. She rescued three of her beloved dogs...