Janet Hankes Obituary
Born in Worcester, MA to Clarice and Robert Shong her family moved around before settling in Chicago. There she built a life defined by hard work, devotion to her family and making sure her children had a fulfilling home. During her long career in retail she made many friends and her customers loved her like a family member.
Her life, however, was not all work and no play. For many years she enjoyed regular Las Vegas trips with friends, Winters in Marco Island, FL, trips to local casinos and never enough time at our family cabin in Michigan. IYKYK that she was always up for a good time with family and friends.
She is survived by her husband of 67 years Erwin, a retired Chicago Police Department Detective, sons John (Jacki), Jim (Vickie) and Jeff (Carlos Velez). She was preceded in death by son Joseph Hankes. She loves her grandchildren Alison Hankes (Mike Horr), Molly Hankes (Cory Schupay), Tim Hankes and Brian Hankes. She also had the joy of being Great-Grandmother (Gigi) to Emerson, Maeve and Sloane.
The youngest of 4 siblings she was preceded in death by Dora Mae, Howard and Alfred.
She is survived by far too many nieces and nephew and their families to list but you can believe she knows all of their names, where they live and probably what they do for a living!
In lieu of flowers please make donations to: www.honorflightchicago.org
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Walter mazarka
February 3, 2026
I remember all the good times we had in Irons when you came up to the cabin. I grew up knowing your kids and my parents always enjoyed sitting and visiting on your front porch. There was always Labor Day at the Catholic Church across the street from your cabin. You are gone but never forgotten. Say hello to my parents. Rest in peace Janet.
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4901 South Archer Avenue, Chicago, IL 60632
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