Celebration of Life June 12 for Novato's Harry Hanks

Harry Martin Hanks departed from his Earthly life on May 22, 2016. Harry was born on May 13, 1942 in Bell, California. He spent his childhood in Downey, California. Growing up in Southern California, Harry – nicknamed “Buster” – was a Boy Scout in Troup 423. He fondly recalled that his beloved dog Togo waited for him at the bus stop after elementary school each day. As a teen, Harry enjoyed many activities including surfing and spending time at Catalina Island. He attended Earl Warren High School in Downey and Long Beach State University. Some of his greatest friendships were formed during his participation in the Esquires Car Club.

Harry spent over 50 years working as an information technology specialist and executive, starting his career with Rockwell International. He moved to the Bay Area in the 1970s and worked for Foremost McKesson, I. Magnin, The Pasha Group, and IBM. Harry finished his career as an IT consultant for various corporations, including IBM and the Mayo Clinic.

Upon his recent retirement, he spent his days hiking, meeting with friends for coffee, going to the gym, taking care of his “granddogs,” and attending his grandchildren’s varied activities.

Harry was married to the love his life, Ursula Hanks (Rehbein). He and Ursula met in Novato truly by accident, during the gasoline shortage in 1979. After waiting in a long gas line, Harry drove his car out of the station and accidentally hit Ursula as she was riding her bicycle to work. Ursula’s leg was broken and Harry’s car bumper dented, but life was better for both of them from that moment forward. As Harry often explained, their eyes met and they “sparkled.”

What followed was a true love affair. The couple married on February 14, 1982. They brought their children together to form one big, happy family and were joyfully married for 34 years. The couple has lived in San Francisco, Corte Madera and Novato.

Harry is preceded in death by his parents Martin and Louise Hanks, and his mother and father-in-law Willi and Hilde Rehbein. Harry leaves behind his sister Roberta Rozelle, his son Kevin Hanks (Renee), daughters Tammie Hanks, Debbie Hanks, Liz Chiang (Doug) and Elise Smith. He and Ursula have 12 grandchildren, who will dearly miss their Papa: Nicole, Lyndsey, Shaina, Michael, Jeremy, Tyler, Marie, Kayla, Jake, Ryan, Audrey and Nathan; they also have five great grandchildren.

Family was the top priority in Harry’s life, and he was most happy during the times he shared with them. One of his favorite joys was being with loved ones at their Lake Tahoe family cabin. Harry loved travel, especially his trips to Germany, Hawaii, Tahiti, Alaska and Yosemite. He enjoyed snow skiing, running and music.

Harry was a loyal friend and cared deeply about the well being of those he knew. He was a true giver and found no greater joy than witnessing the good fortune of others. All who knew Harry have been inspired by his passionate love for people and animals, his gentlemanly manner, and his enjoyment of life. Harry’s family and friends will miss his generous nature, sincere kindness, patient listening, contagious smile and warm hugs.

A celebration of Harry’s life will be held on Sunday, June 12 at 1:30 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Novato. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Marin Humane Society in Harry’s name.