Brian Noel Hannar

Brian Noel Hannar, of Schoolcraft, Michigan, passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. He was born on February 10, 1955, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of Philip "Bud" and Alice (Glidden) Hannar.

Brian was raised in the Schoolcraft area on his family's centennial farm along 12th Street. Beekeeping was in his blood, and as a second-generation beekeeper, he carried on a family tradition that would become his life's work. After graduating from Schoolcraft Schools in 1973, Brian began helping his father care for the family hives. Before long, he purchased hives of his own and expanded on Hannar's Apiaries.

What began as his father's hobby grew into an impressive operation of approximately 2,000 hives that travelled from Michigan to Florida to California and back. Brian dedicated himself to his bees and continued caring for them until his passing. His work was more than a business; it was a lifelong passion and a continuation of the family legacy he was proud to carry forward.

When he wasn't tending to his bees, Brian enjoyed riding his motorcycle and cruising the backroads. Those who knew him might have spotted him making a trip to Marshall, Michigan, where he enjoyed his favorite Mexican food at Oyé Amigos. He also had a passion for collecting firearms, especially those modeled after the Old Western guns.

Brian's friends affectionately referred to him as "Baba Looey," much to his chagrin. It was one of those nicknames that stuck and became part of the personality his friends and loved ones came to know.

After a long friendship, Brian married his dear friend, Pamela Avard. Following Pam's retirement in 2011, the two spent their winters in Florida, where they continued caring for their bees, horses, and dogs. They shared a life filled with companionship and the things they loved.

Left to cherish Brian's memory are his beloved wife, Pamela; his children, Stephanie (Miguel) Hannar and David (Morgan) Hannar; his "baby girl," Maggie, the German Shepherd; his siblings, Paul Hannar, Cheryl Hannar, Ruth Albertson, and Kae (Jimmy) Stewart; and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Philip "Bud" and Alice Hannar.

In accordance with the family's wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Brian’s life will be held on Thursday, November 19, 2026 at the Fraternal Order Eagles Aerie 3531, 11611 Shaver Road, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 with a time of sharing beginning at 2:00 p.m. followed by fellowship and an opportunity to gather in Brian’s memory.

Brian will be remembered for being strong for his family, a loving father, a loyal friend, his dedication to his craft, his love of the open road, his unmistakable sense of humor, and the legacy he built through Hannar's Apiaries.

Memorials made in Brian's name may be directed to the Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, an organization that held a special place in Brian's heart.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com, please take time to sign Brian's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Hannar family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 129 South Grand Street, Schoolcraft, MI 49087. 269-679-5622.