Obituary - Edwin Hanks

Edwin Hanks passed away peacefully Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, of causes related to age. He was surrounded by his wife of 62 years and loving family.

Ed, or "Papa" as he liked to be called, was born in October of 1930 in Southwick to Wilmer Hanks and Nadine (McCoy) Hanks. He was the oldest of six boys.

Edwin graduated from Kendrick in 1948 and fell in love with his soulmate. They were married June, 25, 1949. From there, they made their home in Lewiston. He started work at Potlatch Corp. and retired in 1990, after 42 years. Retirement wasn't going to slow him down, so in 1992, he and his wife started working summers for Oars Dories. In 1995, he decided to help his daughter and son-in-law in their new business venture. He also volunteered for The Senior Nutrition Program for the last 22 years.

He was an excellent example on how to live life to the fullest. He enjoyed gardening, camping, fishing, hunting, family vacations, peanut butter on pancakes, puzzles with grandkids, Whoppers from Burger King, huckleberry picking and making firewood. Great big hugs were his specialty, with a large lap for all his grandchildren.

As a teen he and his brothers were mischievous. For example, Halloween was "Roll the Outhouses" night. He also had a love-hate relationship with squirrels.

Edwin enjoyed the Old-Time Fiddlers and once upon a time square dancing with his favorite partner. He lived his life for friends and family, with Thanksgiving and Christmas being a time for everybody to get together. The camera was also always near whenever family was around and he took several photos.

Ed is survived by his wife; four brothers; three children and their spouses; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Carl and Vernon; and a great-grandchild.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, the respiratory therapists, the clergy staff at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for their professional and loving care and the outstanding nursing staff.

A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Orchards Community Church, 822 Bryden Ave. Favorite photos are welcome. The family suggests donations be made to Orchards Community Church or a charity of the donor's choice.

Lewiston Tribune, February 8, 2012, p. 5C
Transcribed by Jill Leonard Nock