Phil Hanaka Fort Lauderdale, FL Obituary – April 17, 2025 — The legal and financial communities are mourning the sudden passing of Philip M. Hanaka, a respected shareholder at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC and a recognized leader in the financial services legal sector. Philip was a co-leader of the firm’s Finance Industry Group and served as a valued member of the firm’s Board of Directors and Promotions Committee.
With over 19 years of legal experience, Hanaka was known for his deep expertise in representing national and international financial institutions across a wide spectrum of complex lending transactions. His work spanned commercial real estate, construction lending, asset-based lending facilities, syndicated loans, as well as aircraft and yacht financing, and mezzanine lending.
Throughout his career, Philip earned a reputation for his sharp legal insight and unwavering commitment to clients, especially during times of financial complexity. He also provided strategic guidance in loan workouts and foreclosures, particularly within the commercial and corporate lending space.
Philip earned his Juris Doctor from Northeastern University School of Law and completed his undergraduate studies at Dartmouth College. He was admired not only for his legal skill but for his integrity, mentorship, and the collaborative spirit he brought to every project and team.
His colleagues at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney expressed deep sorrow at the loss, describing him as a leader, mentor, and friend who played a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s financial services practice and internal culture.
Details surrounding his passing have not been made public at this time, and the family has requested privacy as they grieve this profound loss.
Philip M. Hanaka leaves behind a legacy of excellence and leadership in financial legal practice, and his contributions to the profession will be long remembered by clients, colleagues, and friends alike.
In honor of his memory, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney is expected to share further tributes and information about memorial arrangements in the coming days.
