Obituary: Hankel, Gerald Ray
Age 63
He was the youngest in the family and soon earned the nickname “Babe”, which stuck with him throughout his life.
Gerry graduated from Rogers High School in 1970.
He attended Eastern Washington University for a short time studying forestry.
In 1971 he decided to focus his sights on a career as a locomotive engineer for the Burlington Northern Railroad, joining his dad and brother, Gary.
He retired in 1999.
He married the love of his life, Sherilyn, on October 15, 1983, melding their families.
Gerry was a devoted family man who enjoyed watching ball games, helping with homework, and spending time during the summer at Spirit Lake.
He spent countless hours with his brother/best friend Gary, working on “projects” and enjoying the company of one another.
He also enjoyed having gatherings at his house where he and Sherilyn would delight their guests with delicious meals and drinks, which will never be forgotten.
He was a passionate gardener and golfer, an avid Seattle Mariners fan who rarely missed a game, and took great pleasure in gaming with his online community of friends.
He was a best friend, husband, brother, father, uncle, grandfather and hilarious storyteller.
He brought joy to everyone he encountered.
He is survived by his wife Sherilyn, brothers Gary Hankel (Jan) and Lester Hancock (Joan), sister Susan Brunette, his children Chad, Stacie, Rick and Chrissy, eleven grandchildren, several nieces and his faithful companion Lola the pug.
He is preceded by his son Jeff.
Please consider making a donation to Make-A-Wish Foundation at 104 S. Freya, Suite 210, Green Flag Bldg., Spokane, WA, 99202, (or online at akwa.wish.org/), in his honor.
A private Celebration of his Life will be held.