Robert “Bob” Hankins departed this world on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.
Bob was born in 1936 in Bell, California. At the age of 10, his family moved to the Coos Bay area, where he lived out his life.
His dedication to hard work began in high school where he built the largest newspaper route in Coos Bay. In high school, he learned the art of ceramic tile installation under the guidance of his father, eventually owning the family business, Bay Art Tile. Bob graduated from North Bend High School in 1955.
Bob exemplified the mantra, “Work Hard, Play Hard.” The long hours he put in at work funded his love of cars and other pastimes. Bob always had a good set of wheels. He was proud of his ’55 Chevy, ’65 Mustang, four wheelers, a backhoe on the ranch and a rare amphibious car that he enjoyed driving right into the lake.
In 1958, Bob married Fontella Jensen. Together they embarked on a life of adventure. In their 65 years together, they never stood still. There was always a project (or three) that Bob was involved with. They enjoyed building two cabins on Ten Mile Lake, and later a ranch in Templeton Valley. It was on these many properties that fond memories were made of camping, boating, hunting, clam digging, gardening and buggy driving.
Although he displayed a “tough” exterior, those who knew Bob would agree that he had a heart of gold. As a business owner, Bob gave many people their first chance at work, treating them like adults and giving them a sense of purpose and worth. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his friends. He was always there for his family, attending every event and supporting every interest.
Robert was preceded in death by his son, Brad Hankins, and is survived by his wife, Fontella Hankins; daughter Brenda Troisi, her husband, Jim; their children Hannah and Seth; Brad’s children, Daniel and Kaitlin, her husband, Tyler Frank, and their son, Hendrik; and Bob’s brother, Jim Hankins.
Bob graced the world with humor. In his memory, we encourage you to visit a friend for a beer and a joke.
