David Raymond Hanna

He was the beloved husband of Ann Hanna (née Kossyk); devoted father of Mark D. Hanna and his wife, Erienne; and loving grandfather of Sawyer, Mason, Thatcher, and Alexandra (“Andie”) Hanna. He was also the dear brother of Julie Gerhardt (Husband - Greg).

Born and raised in the Midwest, Dave lived in Kansas, Oklahoma, North Carolina, and for most of his life, Maryland. He met the love of his life, Ann, while attending Kansas State University, and the two married in 1973, beginning a partnership filled with laughter, shared adventures, and enduring devotion.

Dave began his career as a high school English and history teacher, where his love of learning and storytelling inspired countless students. He later transitioned into a career as a computer programmer, working for several companies before joining the Social Security Administration, where he served with diligence and pride until his retirement in 2016.

A man of many talents and endless curiosity, Dave was happiest when creating, building, or fixing something with his own two hands. An accomplished woodworker, he crafted beautiful pieces of furniture for family, friends, and the schools his son and grandchildren attended. In later years, he found special joy as a luthier, repairing and restoring acoustic guitars. His meticulous skill and deep respect for his craft earned him hundreds of glowing reviews and several published articles on guitar repair techniques.

Dave’s love of music ran deep. He learned to play guitar at a young age and played throughout his life, with a special fondness for classic rock and bluegrass. Whether strumming an old favorite or fine-tuning an instrument in his workshop, music was woven through nearly every chapter of his life.

Beyond his workshop, Dave loved hiking with his wife and grandkids, exploring national parks, bike riding, and studying history. To his family, he embodied the spirit of “If you want a thing done well, do it yourself.” There seemed to be nothing he couldn’t do.

In recent years, he delighted in spending time with his grandchildren: playing chess, building with Legos, attending concerts and sporting events, or joining in a princess tea party with Andie. His hands built furniture and guitars, but they also built memories, laughter, and lasting love.

The guitars he restored and the furniture he crafted will continue to bring joy for many years to come, enduring reflections of a life well lived, and a man deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in David’s name to Gilchrist, Attn: Philanthropy Department, 11311 McCormick Road, Suite 350, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031, or online at www.gilchristcares.org