Obituary of Gabriel R. Hanken

MONTICELLO, IOWA

Gabriel “Gabe” R. Hanken, 41 of Monticello, Iowa passed away Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Jones Medical Center, Anamosa, Iowa.

Visitation will be begin at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at SS Peter and Paul Lutheran Church in Castle Grove, Iowa. 

Funeral services will commence at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at SS Peter and Paul Lutheran Church with burial in Prairie Hill Cemetery in Castle Grove.  Pastor Holly Knouse will officiate.

Gabriel was born on April 13, 1982 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Jay and Cindy (Rowen) Hanken.

Gabe was curious about everything mechanical and scientific from an early age. He inherited his love of fireworks and cars that go fast from his father. His mother claimed he was the only kid she knew that could start the lawn on fire while it was raining. Gabe had a knack for anything automotive, but also took great interest in computers and technology, loved wine making, antique guitar repair, and amateur gemology.  He also loved fine art and music of all genres.  Curiosity was one of his best traits.  He was also independent, strong willed, and stubborn at times. 

Gabe graduated from Monticello High School in 2000, and briefly attended the University of Iowa, but chased a dream in racing to North Carolina in 2002. Gabe worked his way up from working on an ARCA team, to the Busch Series, to the Cup Series over a few short years. His time in NASCAR allowed him to travel all over the country as a pit crew member for Phoenix Racing, and later as a suspension specialist in the Cup Series for BAM Racing.  He made many friends during his time in North Carolina, and had many stories of his travels.   

Survivors include his mother, Cindy Hanken of Monticello, grandmother, Nedra Hanken of Monticello, siblings: Garett (Jenny) Hanken of Monticello, Whitney Hanken of Santa Fe, NM, and Kaelor Hanken of Denver, CO, nieces, Olyvia Hanken-Arlen and Rosa Hanken, and a nephew, Waylon Hanken.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jay Hanken in 2019, paternal grandfather, Wesley Hanken, maternal grandparents, Robert and Rosa Rowen, nephews, Anton and Brooks Hanken, aunt, Terri Vanek, and an uncle, Chris Hanken.

Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 700 E Oak St, Monticello, IA  52310.