In Loving Memory of Fred and Kate Hahn

I am writing this on behalf of my husband, Mike Evans. 

Fred Hahn’s passing comes as a  surprise for many, even more so because many have learned for the first time of his wife, Kate Hahn’s, passing just months prior. These loving parents of three are leaving behind their disabled adult daughter, Melissa. Melissa has Cerebral Palsy and other special needs.  As we collaboratively pen this out we pray that God assembles into words our thoughts and feelings in a way that touches your hearts. 

Mike sincerely feels blessed that Fred allowed him to be part of his final months, talking baseball and bible. He witnessed firsthand the trials and tribulations this family has gone through. He saw the hurt that Jesse and Stephanie  (Fred and Kate’s other children) went through as they had to make heartbreaking decisions. 

Acknowledging and continuing to respect the private, proud, yet humble person Fred was, we are reaching out to a community that grew to love Fred in an effort to support  the family and give them some financial relief. For many of us the mere knowledge of who Fred was is all that is needed. However, for those who were not able to know him and his devoted wife, or the tragedy that his family has graciously endured in the last 7 months, please continue reading. This timeline of events took place in the middle of a pandemic while forced to social distance in a time that family and friends were needed the most. We can’t begin to express how incredibly heavy our hearts are.

Looking to the bible for some inspiration this verse touched my heart; it is the essence of this post  2 And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. John 9:2-3 

On Easter Sunday of this year, Fred was diagnosed with a rapidly progressive terminal brain cancer called Glioblastoma. At the time of his diagnosis Kate was taking care of Fred while continuing to care for Melissa. 

Devastatingly, in July, shortly after learning of Fred’s diagnosis, Kate suffered from a heart attack and passed away unexpectedly in her sleep. Kate missed meeting their first grandson, Hudson, born in August. 

Even through the pain caused by his disease and mourning for his wife, Fred tried to heroically continue caring for Melissa. Unfortunately, Fred’s deterioration ultimately forced the family to hire private 24/7 in-home care for him, as well as a caretaker for Melissa.     

The numerous Chemotherapy and Radiation treatments, in an excess of $50,000, along with other out of pocket expenses for both Fred and Melissa, have financially overwhelmed the family. 

Fred and Kate dedicated their entire lives to caring for Melissa; opting to stay home with her when given the opportunity to travel or vacation. Instead, Fred took pleasure in going to Washington Park and Fitch, following any kid who wore a uniform in any town. Yes, Fred was the friendly face of the family but Kate was always behind the scenes dedicated to her family. They held a united front when it came to Missy’s care. As her primary care givers their dedication to her is reflected in Melissa’s joyful personality. She gives the best greetings with so much excitement that it brightens up your day! So genuine and pure.   

Missy turns 40 today Wednesday December 9th, this will be the last birthday she spends in her home. The family plans to place her in a home with other kids with Cerebral Palsy, where her needs will be met until they are able to make accommodations to bring her to live with them. In addition to medical expenses, the family anticipates legal fees associated with the transfer of guardianship for Melissa.

With the family’s blessing we are asking for any contribution to help towards these expenses. We also ask that you keep Melissa, Stephanie, and Jesse, his wife Jessica, and their baby in your prayers.

The family is genuinely grateful for the hundreds of social media posts sharing condolences and treasured memories of Fred. And, they are hopeful that it continues for years to come. We all know that there are so many “Fred Hahn” stories...enough to last a lifetime.