Susan Ann Wrede Hanak
December 8, 1952 - July 20, 2026
Susan Ann (Wrede) Hanak, 73, of Raymond, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully at her home on July 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. She fought with incredible strength, courage, and grace until the very end.
Susan was born on December 8, 1952, in Passaic, New Jersey, to Lorraine Wrede and the late Carl Wrede. She was raised in Paramus, New Jersey, where she graduated from Paramus High School.
Following high school, Susan proudly served her country by enlisting in the United States Army. She served for four years, including a station assignment in Thailand during the Vietnam War, where she worked in military communications, receiving signals that guided aircraft landings. Her time in the Army was just one example of the strength she carried throughout her life.
While home from the service, a mutual friend arranged a blind date with James Hanak. That one date changed both of their lives, and the rest as they would say, was history. Susan and James were married on November 22, 1980, and shared a marriage that was filled with love. Together they built a life they were proud of, raising their family and enjoying every chapter together.
Susan and James made their home in New Jersey until 1996, when they relocated to Hudson, New Hampshire, where they lovingly raised their five children. Although Susan held several jobs throughout her life and was known for her incredible work ethic, Susan found her true calling as a wife and mother. Caring for her children, making sure they were always where they needed to be, cheering them on, and creating a loving home brought her more joy than any career ever could. Being "Mom" was her favorite job, and she embraced it wholeheartedly every single day.
Family was at the center of Susan's world. She cherished every holiday, birthday, cookout, and family gathering, finding happiness simply in being surrounded by the people she loved. As her family grew, becoming "Grandma" was one of life's greatest blessings and she treasured every moment spent making memories with them.
Susan and James also shared a love of travel and adventure. They ventured in their trailer on weekend getaways, visiting extended family and exploring towns along the East Coast, they enjoyed every journey together, no matter how near or far.
About ten years ago, they settled in Raymond, New Hampshire, where lakeside living allowed Susan to enjoy the outdoors she loved so much. She became a devoted member of Raymond Baptist Church, where she found not only a church home but a community of dear friends who quickly became like family. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she generously gave her time and heart to her church community.
Above all else, Susan will be remembered for the unconditional love she gave so freely. She was the heart of her family a devoted wife, an incredible mother, a proud grandmother, a loyal sister and friend, and a woman whose strength inspired everyone who knew her.
Susan is survived by her beloved husband of 45 years, James Hanak; her mother, Lorraine (Leskanic) Devitt; her children, Carla Stratton and her husband, Jeffrey, Alaina Hanak and her significant other, BJ Comyns, Jamie Martin and her husband, Joseph, Phillip Hanak, and Haley Hanak; her cherished grandchildren, Tyler James Stratton, Danika Stratton, Kaylynn Hudon, Jack Hanak, Carson Hanak, Kerry Martin; her siblings, Patty Grieco and her husband, Victor, and brother David Wrede; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Susan was predeceased by her cherished grandson, Eli Hanak, and by her father, Carl Wrede.
A celebration of life will be held at the Raymond Baptist Church, 145 Rt. 27. Raymond, NH on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 10:00 AM. For more information, visit www.brewittfuneralhome.com
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