Erina (Rohner) Hanka

Erina Hanka, age 81, of Ada, Michigan passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 24, 2024. The daughter of Emma Fuss, Erina was born on September 29, 1942 in the former Czechoslovakia. She is survived by her brother, Ewald Röhner of Kircheim/Teck, Germany. Erina and her mother immigrated to Western Germany when she was five years old, settling in the town of Kirchheim/Teck. On July 31, 1964, Erina married the love of her life, Rudolf Hanka, who preceded her in death on November 7, 2022.

In 1966, the young couple moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan when Rudi accepted a woodworking job at John Widdicomb Furniture Company. Thinking they would only stay for a few short years, they quickly fell in love with America and made it their forever home. Erina began working at Travelers Insurance until she found a small German company called Suspa. Erina began working at Suspa on April 1, 1975 in Human Resources before soon advancing to the position of President of Suspa in 1980, a position she held until June 1, 2001. During her time at Suspa, Erina served on many Boards, including Fifth Third Bank, YMCA, Porter Hills and The Right Place. After her time at Suspa, Erina worked for several years as Interim President at Swoboda in Grand Rapids before officially retiring. Throughout her career, Erina was known for her strong leadership and paved the way for many women in business. She was a sincere leader who genuinely cared for her employee's well being - redefining the “open door” policy.

Erina and her husband shared a love for travel and a love for animals. They were world travelers, frequently visiting two of their favorite continents, Europe and Africa. Erina’s love of animals was born at an early age while often visiting her great grandparent's farm in Germany. This special love of animals continued throughout her life as she enjoyed close relationships with Blandford Nature Center, Crash's Landing, and Carol’s Ferals. Erina will always be remembered as a kind, thoughtful person who deeply cared for others.  She will be greatly missed. A memorial gathering celebrating Erina's life will take place at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 on Sunday, April 28, 2024, from 12:00-3:00 PM. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association.

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