Those who knew him say there will never be another Don Hanni.  The respected attorney, former Municipal Court Judge and long-time political leader could always be counted on to speak his mind, especially about politicians he disagreed with.

Some of Hanni's fiercest political battles came against an eventual ally, Jim Traficant, whom Hanni once tried to have declared insane, saying at the time, "I'm convinced that the sheriff is a nut."

Ironically, years later, Hanni led Traficant's ill-fated presidential campaign and even offered to help then-Congressman Traficant fight federal charges in court.

Even those who opposed Hanni, such as former Youngstown mayor Pat Ungaro, who managed to defeat the local party machine, admit that behind the scenes there was also a great deal of respect.

Along the way, there always seemed to be a Hanni story.  For example, the night he smashed his Cadillac through the front of the downtown Post Office, having the presence of mind to call the police from a nearby bar.

He served as Mahoning County Democratic party Chairman for nearly twenty years, until he was unseated in 1994 by attorney Mike Morley, but was always admired for his devotion to politics and history.

But Hanni may be best remembered for his abilities as a lawyer.  From his defense of convicted murderer Steven Masters in 1980, to sparring with witnesses on the stand, telling reporters after one hearing when he cross-examined then Judge Patrick Kerrigan, "I'm not scared to try any case."

His renown in the courtroom was nationwide, and he became a role model to others, such as now-Mahoning Co. Common Pleas Judge Scott Krichbaum, who called Hanni "a good example" for younger lawyers to follow.

One of the last times we saw him, he was inducted into the local Democratic party's Hall of Fame, and as you'd expect, he gave us a memorable sound bite saying "I don't have a modest bone in my body."

But he added there were others who had already passed away who might be more deserving.

Some will no doubt say that Don Hanni is with them now.

Hanni's funeral arrangements are still being made.

They're being handled by the Rossi-and-Santucci Funeral Home in Boardman.