Robert Junior Hankins

Robert “Bob” Junior Hankins, 77, of Buckley, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 14, 2026, with the comfort of his loving wife of almost 59 years by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Bob was born on June 11, 1948, at home in Mesick, Michigan, to Robert L. and Mildred (Trowbridge) Hankins-Marlow. He is a graduate from Mesick High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was awarded the Purple Heart for his service.

Bob worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family. He later retired from Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS), where he was known as a dedicated and well-loved custodian.

Bob had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing, and in earlier years spent time snowmobiling. He also served as a camp host at Healey Lake Campground, a role that suited his friendly and welcoming nature. Whether casting a line on the water or sitting around a campfire, he found joy in the simple moments spent outside.

Above all else, Bob’s greatest love was his family. He was incredibly proud of his grandchildren and was one of their biggest supporters. From teaching them how to fish, to cheering them on from the stands at their sporting events, to listening proudly as they performed a solo, Bob was always there—beaming with pride.

He was known for his infectious personality and wonderful sense of humor. A natural jokester, he had a warm smile and a laugh that could lift anyone’s spirits. If you had the pleasure of meeting Bob, you quickly realized you had made a friend.

Bob married the love of his life, Alice Jean Bush, on April 15th, 1967, who survives him. He is also survived by his children, Jeff (Cristy Allen) Hankins and Brenda (Lee) Natzke; his cherished grandchildren, Dillon Hankins, Riley Hankins, and Avery Natzke; his brother, Jerry (Terry) Hankins; Stepbrothers Rod Marlow (Jill) and Jeff Marlow (Carol); and several nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert L. Hankins and Mildred (Trowbridge) Hankins-Marlow; his brother, Bruce Hankins; his father-in-law, Alfred Bush and mother-in-law, Naioma (Kellogg) Bush; his stepfathers, Anthony Traub and Donald Marlow; Stepsister, Nancy Menz; his brother-in-law, Harold Bush and sisters-in-law, Hellen Bush; brother-in-law, Loren Butler and sister-in-law, Evelyn (Bush) Butler-Iceman.

A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held in the spring and announced at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: The Salvation Army of Cadillac 725 Wright St, PO Box 447, Cadillac, MI 49601.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Kingsley Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com