Lavern Lee Hahnke, 86, passed away on November 26, 2024, in Land O' Lakes, FL. Born on April 28, 1938, Lavern served with distinction as a Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corps during the Vietnam War. His contributions to military medicine and his commitment to serving his country will be remembered by those who knew him and served alongside him. Lavern's dedication to his duties and his leadership were a testament to his character and his enduring patriotism.

Vern graduated from Haverling Central School in Bath, NY. He attended University of Rochester (NY) and Long Island University. He was employed by Rochester Psychiatric Center as Treatment Team Leader and Monroe Community College as Assistant Professor of Nursing.

Upon retiring he volunteered at Tidewell Hospice Center in Ellenton. After moving to Land O Lakes he began volunteering in the Thrift Store of Gulfside Hospice.

He was active in St Clements Episcopal Church in Tampa, serving in many areas of church life.

He will be fondly remembered as a wonderful guy who reached out and helped many friends with his kindness, generosity, and compassion. He will be greatly missed by friends and family, including the Rev. Andrew Heyes, friend and long-time companion, brother Bernard Hahnke (Sandra), cousin Charline Howells (Philip), nieces, Lisa Price, Julie Hahnke, Jennifer Scardina (Thomas), nephew Matthew Hahnke, grand-niece Catherine Feeley, and grand-nephews Alexander Scardina and Nicholas Scardina.

His Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, December 14th, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Clement's Episcopal Church, 706 W 113th Ave, Tampa 33612. He will be laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, on Monday, January 6th, 2025, 12:30 p.m.