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Word received that John Hantke died this morning (11 January 2026) of cancer.
Janice Finan, longtime friend of the Hantkes sent notification via Debbie Wolf. Thank you Janice and Debbie.
John was married to former Taft classmate, Betty Lord Hantke, who survives him. Betty is being comforted by family.
On behalf of the 1962 Taft alumni, we send our deepest condolences to Betty and the rest of John's family.
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Loxi Struckus (Hagthrop)
I am saddened to hear about the passing of my dear high school friend I spent a lot of time with
him and his high school girlfriend and now wife when we were at Taft. I'm sure he is now with some
of his old friends God bless Betty, he will always walk beside her. ❤️🙏Loxi Hagthrop
Cary Brent
Rest in peace, John (aka Mr. Studebaker), And God bless you Betty.
I was a neighbor of John's in high school. There was a tight group of us that roamed the valley in our cars and it could be said John was our ringleader. He drove his Studebaker pick-up which we used to pile in the back of and climb the hills of Woodland Hills, Tarzana and Encino. No houses. No roads. Just grassy hills. Damn if he didn't make it to the top of most of them.
John's house was kind of our clubhouse. His Mom would always have a fresh pot of coffee going no matter what time of day it was. We were all welcome there. I treasure those memories.
I don't believe there was a kinder soul on the planet than John. He and Betty had this magic connection that started in High School and will live on thru eternity.