It is with heavy hearts and slightly bewildered disbelief that we announce the passing of Layne A. Hasenbank — known to many as a regular man full of dad jokes, puns, worldly advice, and a whiz with computers and a 10-key. But to us, he was Superman. On April 5, 2025, Kryptonite finally did what no mere mortal could: took down our hero.
Layne was born on July 2, 1953, in Storm Lake, Iowa, to Arthur and Darlene (Kischer) Hasenbank. He grew up on the family farm in Newell, attending school there and graduating from Newell High School in 1971.
On November 27, 1981, Layne married his friend and the love of his life, Jo (Mary Jo Sebben), in Newell, Iowa. Together they raised three beautiful daughters — all of whom inherited his walk: Niki (Ben) Carstens, Libby (Rob) Riggs, and Marlena (Jake) Cooper.
At age 34, Layne made the bold decision to start college. Often the oldest in his classes, he was always the hardest working. While working full-time for Buena Vista County and attending night classes full-time as one of the original non-traditional college students, he graduated with honors from Buena Vista University in December 1992. In 1994, he became a CPA and accepted a position at Jolliffe & Co. in Laurens, Iowa. During tax season, if you happened to call and ask how he was doing, you could count on him to say, “Taxing,” followed by a satisfied chuckle.
Layne loved his family and God with quiet strength and unwavering commitment. He adored his grandchildren and always made it a point to ask about each one individually whenever he called. He was a fixer and a doer — from gardens to home improvement projects, there was always a list (and probably a spreadsheet). When he finally did relax in the evening, you'd find him reclined with the remote in hand, a Pepsi within arm’s reach, and his loyal pup, Pepper, at his feet.
Layne is survived by his wife, Jo (Sebben) Hasenbank; his daughters Niki, Libby, and Marlena; and his grandchildren: Jackson, Wyatt, and Mason Carstens; Thaddeus, Liviana, and Waverly Riggs; and Georgia Cooper. He is also survived by his sisters, Wana (Brent) Johnson and their sons Dana and Bret, and Rhonda (Scott) Bringle and their daughter Monica.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Darlene; his in-laws, Tony and Frances Sebben; and his brother-in-law, David Sebben.
Though he’s now flying elsewhere he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and well-timed naps he insisted were just "resting his eyes." Truth be told, the world seems a little less super without him. But we know he had a good run and would want us to smile, laugh, and carry on. Rest easy, Layne. Even Superman needs a break.
