Gregory Lynn Hanifl

Gregory Lynn Hanifl (76) entered eternal life on December 12, 2024. 

Greg was born to Edward and Marian (Renne) Hanifl in La Crosse, Wisconsin on October 20, 1948. 

He was a 1966 graduate of Aquinas High School and a 1970 graduate of La Crosse State. La Crosse was Greg’s home for sixty years of his life. He held a variety of jobs which included being a full-time care giver for his aging mother during the last years of her life. 

Greg loved the river. He enjoyed boating, hunting and fishing with family and friends. 

He fondly remembered the good times enjoyed at the Varsity Club with his two sisters and friends. He also became a loving uncle upon the arrival of nieces and nephews. 

In his adult years, Greg became an avid gardener. He enjoyed spending time gardening in his yard and visiting with friends and neighbors on 21st Street. He also enjoyed watching Packer games, particularly with his late brother-in-law David L. Ekern and his nephew Nick Ekern.

In addition to his parents, Greg is preceded in death by his brothers-in-law David L. Ekern and Martin L Erlandson, DC.

He is survived by his siblings, David E. Hanifl (Beverly Kay), Mary Ann Ekern and Kathy Erlandson

Greg is also survived by the following nieces and nephews: Katie (Brady) Warner, Maria Ekern, David A. Ekern, Eric (Jill) Ekern, Nicholas Ekern, Donald (Mallory) Ekern, Patrick (Gao) Ekern, Dylan Ekern, Ryan (Sammy) Hanifl, Brent (Melissa) Hanifl, Drs. Marty E. (Jessica), Benjamin (Kari) and Joseph (Sarah) Erlandson. Greg is also survived by 18 great nieces and nephews.

Greg’s mental health declined during the last 13 years of his life. It was no longer feasible for him to live alone. As a result, he lived with his sister, Mary Ann and family for nine years; and his nephew Nick for the three years subsequent to living at Lakeview Care Center. Greg never complained and was very appreciative of all who helped him. 

Greg was a devout Catholic. He was very a humble, caring and loving man. He will be missed by his family and friends.

Greg’s family would like to thank the staff at Lakeview Care Center. Special acknowledgement to Greg’s nephew Nick Ekern. In addition to caring for Greg in his home, Nick visited the Care Center often. Nick brought his dog “Bob Barker” to the care center much to the enjoyment of Greg, the other residents, and staff.

Services will be held at St. Teresa of Kolkata Catholic Church (formerly St. Leo’s) at 210 West Hamlin Street, West Salem, Wisconsin on December 21st, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. with a visitation at 9:30 a.m. beforehand. Burial will be at Catholic Cemetery of La Crosse Monday December 23, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. A dinner will also be provided immediately following the service.

Officiated by Monsignor Jeffrey Burrill and Deacon Bob Zietlow.