Gerard N. "Skip" Hankes

Gerard “Skip” Norman Hankes, 66, of Sugar Grove passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2014. His devoted wife of 44 years, Alice (Neitzel) Hankes, was at his side. Skip was a life-long resident of the area and well-known in the community for managing Hankes’ Painting & Decorating, a union painting company started by his father, Norman Hankes. He also served as the first Executive Director of NiPDi and FCAI (both union painting and drywall contractors’ associations) before retiring in 2006. Skip was born February 15,1948, in Aurora, IL to Norman and Shirlie (Lowe) Hankes. He attended St. Mary's Grammar School and was part of the first graduating class of Roncalli Catholic High School in 1966. Upon receiving his degree in business from Quincy College in 1970, he served as a decorated drill sergeant in the U.S. Army and U.S. Army Reserves. When not with his family or working, through the years Skip enjoyed playing golf, volleyball, softball, tennis, and spending time with many long-time friends. Skip was extremely proud of his three daughters, their husbands, and his seven talented grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Alice and three daughters Melissa (Brent) Horlock of Batavia, IL; Melinda (Wes) Johnson of Normal, IL; Amanda (Kevin) Johnson of Celebration, FL; and his seven grandchildren: Andrew Horlock, Ryan Horlock, Liliana Johnson, Wesley Johnson, Alina Johnson, Gunnar Johnson, and Genevieve Johnson. He is also survived by his mother Shirlie (Lowe) Hankes of Aurora and two sisters, Sherry (Bill) Dahl and June Wilkinson, both of North Aurora, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. Skip was preceded in death by his father, Norman Hankes; infant twin sisters, Cassandra and Christina Hankes; his father-in-law, Albert Neitzel, Sr.; and his mother-in-law, Mary Neitzel. Skip will be deeply missed by all who knew him, his generous heart, sense of humor, and giving spirit. He leaves behind many family and friends who will cherish his memory and appreciate the opportunity to have known him. Funeral from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY was held Monday, March 31, 2014, at 10:30am to Holy Angels Church at 11:00am. Fr. Michael Lavan officiated. Visitation was held Sunday, March 30, 2014, from 3:00pm until 7:00pm at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 N. Lake St., Aurora, 630-631-5500. Inurnment was held Thursday, April 3, 2014 at 10:30am at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Deacon Tom Hawksworth officiated the service.

Gerard N. "Skip" Hankes

February 15, 1948 - March 26, 2014