Henry "Hank" Calvin Kuhne

Henry “Hank” Calvin Kuhne of Quanicassee, age 75, passed away on June 10, 2026 after returning home from a day of fishing. He was born April 19, 1951 in Caro, the son of the late Henry and Mary (Lapak) Kuhne. Following high school, Hank honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1969 to 1971, attaining the rank of Lance Corporal. During his military service, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Rifle Marksman Badge.

On June 15, 1974, Hank married the love of his life, Renita Thornton. Their union was blessed with two sons, and nearly forty cherished years. Renita preceded him in death on February 20, 2014. Hank was fortunate to find love again and married the former Diane Dodds-Peplinski on July 7, 2018. Known throughout the community as “Hardware Hank,” he spent many years serving customers and neighbors as the owner of Reese Hardware. His passion for the hardware business continued as he helped his sons establish Gambles Hardware & Gun Shop in Caro. Hank was respected for his knowledge, generosity, and willingness to lend a helping hand throughout the community.

A devoted member of Christ Lutheran Church in Reese, Hank faithfully served his congregation as both Church Council President and Vice President. He was deeply committed to his community and was a longtime member of the Reese American Legion, where he served as Commander and Chaplain. Hank was also a dedicated member and volunteer with the Reese Chapter of Ducks Unlimited for forty-two years.

Hank embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, gunsmithing, buying and selling through online auctions, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Above all, he treasured time spent with family and friends. His grandchildren knew him simply as “Papa,” a title he wore with great pride. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, mentor, and community leader whose kindness touched countless lives. Hank’s legacy of service, hard work, faith, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Hank leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Diane Kuhne, sons, Jeremy Kuhne and Jason (Tara) Kuhne; step-children, Tina (Steve) Shustek and Nathan Peplinski; grandchildren, Blake, Rhett, Emma (Cory), Lydia, and Cecilia. In addition to his parents and first wife, Hank was preceded in death by siblings, Marion, Kathleen, and Richard; daughter-in-law, Whitney (Kleckler) Kuhne; sister-in-law, Ollie; brother-in-law, Earl King.

Hank’s funeral service will be on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church in Reese with Rev. Phil Bromhal officiating. Hank’s family will be present to receive visitors on Monday, June 15, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro and again on Tuesday at church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Reese American Legion or Christ Lutheran Church in Reese.