Thomas L. Hanft

Thomas L. Hanft, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on November 24, 2021. He was born in Buffalo, NY on October 10, 1941 to the late Thomas and Jessie (Williams) Hanft

Thomas attended school in Williamsville. He served in the National Guard and went on to learn his trade in excavating from Adrian Bopp. On December 31, 1960 Thomas married Jo Ann (Swain), together they raised three children. Church was an integral part of Thomas’ life, where he was proud to serve as a youth group leader, a deacon and an elder throughout the years. Thomas’ special request/last wish was to include the following quote in this notice: “When you hear, that Thomas Hanft has passed, Don’t believe it, It’s fake news. I’m more alive than I ever was!”

Beloved husband of Jo Ann (Swain) Hanft; cherished father of Laurie (David) Mitzel, Susie Alston, and Thomas (Barbara) Hanft Jr.; dear brother of Linda (late Robert) Alexander. Proud grandfather of Michael (Carolyn) Mitzel, Jeffery Mitzel, Andrew (Melissa) Mitzel, Phyllissa Mitzel, Johnathan Ruhlman, Jillian (Jacob) Wilson, Corey Rosenthal, Thomas (Meghan) Hanft III, Erica (Curtis) Martin, Jeremy (Ashley) Robnett, Nathan Robnett, and Alexander Robnett; Ten great grandchildren,  many nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive him. Thomas is predeceased by a great granddaughter, Monica.

A Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, December 11, 2021 at 11 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 12752 Lewis Rd., Akron, NY 14001. Charitable donations may be made in Thomas’ name to Hospice Buffalo. 

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