John H. Hanks

1924 - 2021

John H. Hanks, 96, of River Road, Essex, died peacefully at home Tuesday, February 23, 2021. Born March 6, 1924, in Norwich, son of the late Edwin Hanks and Bessie Hanks. John graduated from Norwich Free Academy, after one semester at UConn he enlisted in the Navy during World War II. He was a radio operator on the U.S.S. Mackenzie when he was chosen for officer training school, and graduated from Yale, class of 1948. John had a long successful career at The Travelers, and was an officer of the corporation when he retired in 1988. John resided in Essex for the last 49 years, and was a member of the Essex Yacht Club and Essex Rotary Club. He was an avid sailor and cherished hunting and fishing with his brother, the late Edwin "Fisher" Hanks. John was active in the Yale alumni association. But most important to John was family, and he was the rock of the family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Ethel Hanks; his daughters: Carol Tyler of Tolland, CT and her husband, Rich Tyler; Susan Peloquin of Essex, CT and his son John Hanks, Jr. of Middletown, CT and his wife, Mary-Katelyn; His grandchildren: Amy Carocci, Emily Taylor, Alicia Peloquin, Michael Tyler, David Tyler, William Hanks. Five great grandchildren. His sister-in-law Mildred Hanks and several nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his grandson Jeffery Peloquin. Lux et Veritas. To share a memory of John or send a condolence to his family please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements by the Robinson, Wright, & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.