Benjamin “Ben” Hankins

Ben Hankins, age 94, of Williamsville, passed away on Tuesday December 22, 2015 at Sunny Acres Nursing Home in Petersburg.

Ben is survived by his children, Barb (husband Lynn) Casper, Rex (wife Judy) Hankins, Max Hankins (companion Virginia); fifteen grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife Gwendolyn Owena; three daughters, Kay Bullock, Pat Hankins, and Judy Panton; two sisters, Dorothy McDevitt and Ruby Hankins; and his parents, Arch and Bess Hankins.

Ben was born August 19, 1921 at his home in Williamsville.

He graduated from Williamsville High School and Browns Business College.

Ben was a member of the Williamsville United Methodist Church and Sangamon County Auxiliary Police.  He was an inventor and innovator of various items.

Ben retired from Franklin Life Insurance Company after 31 years.  He enjoyed playing several musical instruments.

He participated in the war in Normandy and Battle of the Bulge.  Ben was a Military Policeman for the U.S. Army during WW II.  He was proud to serve his country.

Visitation will be held on Monday December 28, 2015 from 9:00 until time of service at 11:00 AM at the Williamsville United Methodist Church.

Memorials can be made to the Williamsville Methodist Church or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Burial will be held at Walnut Hill Cemetery near Williamsville.

Rev. Dick Piscatelli will be officiating.