Mark D. Hanna

Mark Douglas Hanna passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on November 13, 1953, in Canton, Ohio, Mark lived a rich, full life defined by his love of family, his sharp wit, and his unmatched ability to connect with others.

From an early age, Mark made an impression. As a toddler, he loved to be the center of attention—famously standing up in restaurants to announce, “Ladies and gentlemen!” to an amused and unsuspecting audience. At the age of three, he independently took on the task of painting the front steps of the family home. That early spark of energy and independence never left him.

Mark’s childhood was filled with movement and activity. His family relocated often for his father Hugh Hanna’s work with Standard Oil, living in Berea, Wadsworth, and Portsmouth, Ohio. He made the most of each home, spending much of his time outdoors with neighborhood friends and climbing on rooftops for fun. Family trips to The Homestead in Virginia, especially with his grandfather, helped foster Mark’s lifelong love of horseback riding and golf.

He spent his high school years in Farmington Hills, Michigan, graduating from Harrison High School. His charm, confidence, and willingness to bend the rules were already well-developed. He played hockey, rode horses, and talked his dad into supporting many of his ideas and hobbies.

In 1976, Mark earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Ashland College. He began his professional life as an independent manufacturers’ representative in the automotive industry. His drive and charisma soon led him into ownership roles. He became Co-Owner and President of Arrowhead Industries, a wire and steel carrier manufacturer that he and his business partner successfully grew.

Later, he purchased The Cleveland Jet Center, an FBO based at Cuyahoga County Airport, during a time of financial distress. With his signature energy and people-first approach, Mark rebuilt it into a thriving and respected business. His belief that relationships—not just numbers—made a company successful shaped his entire career.

Mark married Colleen Gleason, and together they raised three children: David Hanna (Kali), Kathryn Brideau (Mike), and Andrew Hanna (Tessa). They built their family in Shaker Heights and later in Hunting Valley, Ohio. Becoming a father was the defining joy of Mark’s life, and his family quickly became the heart of his identity. He was endlessly proud of the children they raised and took the opportunity to brag about them to anyone who would listen.

Mark was a deeply devoted father. He never missed his sons’ football games, supporting them throughout their careers at University School and Denison University. He stood just off the field, pacing with nerves and pride. He showed the same dedication to Kathryn’s high school soccer and horseback riding. His six grandchildren—Jackson and Grayson Hanna; Calder and Peyton Brideau; and Cameron and Hadley Hanna—brought him immense joy. One of his favorite traditions was hosting his children and their families at John’s Island to ring in the New Year.

Mark had great admiration for his mother, Judy Hanna, and never missed a chance to praise her strength, poise, and compassion. His love for her never wavered, and their bond remained unbreakable throughout his life.

He shared a particularly special lifelong relationship with his sister, Katherine (Brent), whom he loved deeply — and relentlessly teased. Tormenting her began in childhood and, much to her dismay and his delight, remained one of his favorite hobbies well into adulthood. In the final years of his life, their bond grew even closer, and the renewed connection they shared brought him genuine comfort and meaning.

Mark was a passionate golfer and horse racing enthusiast. Over the years, he was a member of several clubs, including Kirtland Country Club, The Country Club, Sandridge Golf Club, Lake Nona Golf and Country Club, John’s Island Club, and Bent Pine Golf Club. Although never a formal member of Canterbury Golf Club, he was there so often that it hardly mattered. He owned several racehorses and took great pride when one of them won the Ohio Derby.

What truly defined Mark was his ability to light up a room. His sense of humor was razor-sharp. His stories were endless. His friendships were deep and lasting. He was the first to offer help to anyone who needed it and the first to raise a glass in celebration. If you spent time with Mark and didn’t laugh, he probably didn’t like you.

He was a devoted son, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal friend, a skilled businessman, and a true original. Mark lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left nothing unsaid. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that any donations should be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) now known as Breakthrough T1D in honor of Mark’s dear friend, Leonard DeFino, whose memory he carried with him always.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Country Club, 2825 Lander Rd., Pepper Pike, OH 44124, Sunday July 6th from 2pm to 5pm.