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Michael Irwin Hankin
FUNERAL HOME
Michael Hankin Obituary
May 10, 1955 - September 21, 2025
Michael Irwin Hankin, 70, of North Haven, CT, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at Autumn Lake Healthcare at The Willows in Woodbridge, CT, after a prolonged battle with multiple health issues. He was born on May 10, 1955, in New Haven, CT, and was the son of the late Henry Hankin and Ida (Sorkin) Hankin and was predeceased by his brothers Howard Hankin and Elliot Hankin. He was a graduate of North Haven High School, class of 1974.
Michael was an exceptionally selfless, gentle, compassionate and courageous man whose main purpose in life was to serve and uplift others, while never asking for anything in return. Michael faced decades of declining health and physical limitations with incredible courage and grace. Being wheelchair-bound for decades did not deter him from his passion of supporting The Shriners Hospitals for Children, serving proudly as a Shriners Hospital "Klown." In his role as "Hankee the Klown," he brought joy and laughter to countless children and adults. "Hankee's" signature skill was creating fantastic balloon animals which he delighted giving to everyone. Even when confined to a hospital bed, when he could no longer actively participate in Klown events, he would make balloon animals for nurses, aides, visitors, and fellow residents - such was his dedication to spreading joy and laughter!
He was also a proud member of The Masonic Fraternity (Cosmopolitan Lodge No. 125, New Haven, CT), embracing and practicing the Fraternity's code of lovingkindness and service. Prior to his residency at The Willows, he was a beloved resident at the Towers in New Haven, CT, performing as "Hankee" and volunteering whenever his physical limitations would allow.
His family and friends thank the staff at The Towers, The Willows, and Connecticut Hospice for their love and dedication in supporting Michael, as well as his many health aides and medical personnel who served him. A special "thank you" is extended to Dr. Yung Ah Lee, M.D., for her incredible devotion and service.
There will be a graveside service on Monday, September 29, 10 a.m., at B'nai Jacob Memorial Park, 200 Wintergreen Avenue, New Haven, CT. A consolation repast will immediately follow at The Towers, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven, CT. Donations can be made in Michael's name to The Shriners Hospitals for Children at donate.shrinerschildrens.org. www.shurefuneralhome.com
Memorial Events
for Michael Hankin
Sep
29
Graveside service
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
B'nai Jacob Memorial Park
200 Wintergreen Avenue, New Haven., CT 06515
Funeral services provided by:
Robert E. Shure & Son Funeral Home, Inc.543 George Street, New Haven, CT 06511
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Hankin
Sponsored by NHRegister.com.
5 Entries
Sandi
Yesterday
Michael was my friend. He called me family, his big sister. Michael loved life. He once told me that God let him live so long because he loved everybody. Michael's friendly smile showed his intent to lift spirits and make others happy. He in spired others to do the same. Through many health issues, Michael persevered making friends with his balloon animals and clowning around. One nurse who remembered him from a previous hospitalization, surprised him with a pouch filled with balloons and a pump. He beat hospice last year and made it to his 50 year high school reunion. Michael loved to dance, sing in the choir, work, attend Jewish services, color on his phone and most of all, visit with friends. I once heard that friends are relatives we choose. I was honored Mi hael chose me to be his friend. I will miss him...alot!
Ron Kortsep
September 27, 2025
RIP Michael You will now run and laugh with the Angels in Heaven for eternity. May God Bless you
Jacki fuehrer
September 27, 2025
Being a classmate of Michaels,I am very sad to read of his passing. He always had a smile and a kind word and he and his brother will always be remembered as jokesters. May he rip with his brother now in the loving embrace of our lord. Another of our classmates gone way too soon.
Dr. Stephen Brenner
September 27, 2025
I am so sad to learn of Michael´s passing. He and his brothers enriched my life. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Dr. Stephen Brenner
Bill Haselmouse
September 26, 2025
Michael was one of the most amazing friends I´ve ever had in my life. Having the sheer joy of sharing many adventures together from high school to September 21st this year, he had the greatest and purest sense of humor. His balloon animals were wonderful and his little magic tricks were very entertaining. He had a tremendous will to live and set such a good example for all of us to learn from. His light will always shine bright in my heart and mind. I will always love him and his incredible family that I knew for years. My pledge is to make sure I play the one song he enjoyed learning on the harmonica every year on his birthday: `Happy Birthday To You´. Thank you, Michael, for being in my life and helping me to be who I am today! God bless you on your new journey.
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