Robert E. Hanks

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Robert E. Hanks on October 26, 2023, at Heywood Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Rob's laugh could brighten the gloomiest days, and his work ethic was second to none. He was born in Gardiner, ME, on September 23, 1954, to the late Clayton E. and Iris M. (Gyles) Hanks. 

Rob was a proud veteran of the US Air Force, climbing the ranks to SGT during his service from 1973 to 1977. After his military service, he embarked on a 28-year journey with Saint-Gobain Abrasives, where he excelled in machinery maintenance. 

Despite his busy work schedule, Rob always made room for his hobbies. His passions were as diverse as they were vibrant: a NASCAR enthusiast, an aficionado of vehicles, and the fabricator of countless items. He had an insatiable appetite for learning and loved his coffee and music. 

Rob's quick wit and incredible sense of humor were matched only by his humility and generosity. He was always there for others, selflessly offering support without expecting anything in return. 

In 2009, Rob married his forever partner, Shari, and they spent many joyful years together. He was also the beloved father to Keri and a loving grandfather to Rylie, Noah, Jackson, and Layla. As a stepfather, he welcomed Kathleen Young, Dustin Young and his wife Jenna with open arms. He is also survived by his siblings, Clayton E. Hanks Jr and his wife Judy, Susan Stockwell and her husband Robert, Roger E. Hanks and his wife Sandra, his beloved dog, Emmie, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Calvin E. Hanks.

Please join us in celebrating Rob's life during calling hours on Thursday, November 9, 2023, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street,  Winchendon, MA. A funeral service will be held the following day, Friday, November 10, at 1:00 pm in the funeral home. A graveside service will follow in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon, MA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: 

American Red Cross- Service to Armed Forces redcross.org/donations/your-gift-matters/donating-to-veterans.html or Lymphoma Research Foundation lymphoma.org

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor and Melissa A. McQuaid, funeral directors.