October 26, 1938 – August 7, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of William (Bill) Charles Frederick Hanke, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Bill, who cherished 63 years of marriage with his wife Bonnie (née Carol), was a loving father to Dana (Todd Childerhose) and Peter (Angelik Jones) and a proud Papa to Colleen, Thomas, Christopher, Melina, and Carl. Bill is predeceased by his parents, Annie and Fred Hanke, and his sister Jean Baxter, survived by his sister Grace Balkwill.
Born in Woodstock, Ontario, Bill spent his early years in Drumbo before completing high school in Paris, Ontario. He furthered his education in Architecture at Ryerson University in Toronto. Bill's professional career spanned several architectural firms in Toronto, where he took particular pride in his work on student housing projects. He later moved to Hudson Bay Company as Director of Construction, dedicating 20 years to his role before retiring.
Upon retirement, Bill and Bonnie relocated to Collingwood, where they embraced the outdoors with skiing, golf, hiking, and curling. Bill’s zest for life extended to his travels with Bonnie; together, they explored most of Europe, China, India, Russia, in addition to much of North America in their RV, visiting almost every state and Canadian province and territory.
Bill was known for his dedication to community service. In Collingwood, he became a valued volunteer, contributing to various construction projects and supporting the Hospice Georgian Triangle (Campbell House), the local curling club, and the hospital. In 2015, he was honoured with the Order of Collingwood for his significant contributions. His passion for volunteering and making new friends was evident in all his endeavors.
In his later years, Bill enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, including coffee with friends and working in his workshop. Many in his family are fortunate to cherish a "Bill original" heirloom piece.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday October 26th, 2-4 p.m. at the Collingwood Curling Club. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bill may be made to Hospice Georgian Triangle (Campbell House). Friends may visit Bill’s online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com