The Leo Alumni Association was recently notified of the death of Richard A. Hankus of the Class of 1976 , by several of his friends and fellow alumni. Richard died unexpectedly on November 19th, 2025 after complications from surgery.
Richard came to Leo from Calumet Grammar School in Calumet Park. While at Leo Richard participated in a wide variety of sports and social and academic activities, including on the swimming and cross country teams, intramurals and on the staff of the Oriole. Richard also had considerable academic achievement, including making the Honor Roll in all 4 years, as well as the National Honor Society, and the International Honor Society Quill and Scroll. Richard also served as Class President of the Class of 1976 during his Senior year.
Richard’s brother, Reverend David Hankus is a graduate of the Class of 1973. Richard invested himself for the last 33 years as a beloved citizen of the Hermosa Beach, California,community, and as an owner operator of two businesses in this area, the “Java Man Coffee Shop” and the “Ocean Diner”. Dave was also very highly regarded by the employees of his businesses, and was know for his great concern for their welfare in all situations, particularly during the time of the covid lockdowns. Dave also married and had two children while living in Hermosa Beach and was a very beloved spouse and father.
Dave participated in many community support activities including serving as president of the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce for two years, as well as many charitable endeavors. He also revived honors in recognition of his service, including being recognized as the Hermosa Beach Chamber “Man of the Year” for his exceptional service.
Richard’s obituary is available here. There is also a lot of other material available to be searched on line for those who wish to connect with their memories of Richard. Richard is survived by his spouse, Tim Briggs, and his two children, as well as his brother Reverend David and a large extended family. The entire membership of the Alumni Association offers its prayers and condolences to Reverend David Hankus and Richard’s spouse and children as well as to the rest of Richard’s family close friends and associates at this time.
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