Thomas Llewellyn Hanks
11/22/1919 – 08/29/2012

Born in Duluth, Minnesota on November 22, 1919, Tom was the third born of six Hanks children and the last living member in his family. He passed away peacefully on August 29, 2012 at the age of 92 in his home in Newport Beach, California, surrounded by his family and close loved ones.

At the age of 18 and in search of a new adventure, Tom hitchhiked from Minnesota to San Diego, California with the money he had saved from selling real silk stockings. He served in the Merchant Marines and the U.S. Navy during WWII and Korea, and was proud to serve as a corpsman at the San Diego Naval Hospital. He loved to share war stores and was most proud to have cared for President Roosevelt’s son “Jimmy.”

Tom loved to work and was employed by Young’s Market Company as a top salesman and account manager for nearly 40 years. After his retirement from Young’s, his desire to continue to be around people inspired him to take a job for fun as a limo driver for ten years. He then worked as a Fletcher Jones Motorcars customer courtesy driver, and was thrilled to help and spoil the customers. His favorite part of his retirement occupations was the ability to make the lives of others easier and to bring a smile to their face. Tom’s ultimate goal in life was to help those around him, and to have some fun along the way.

A true family man and the quintessential patriarch, Tom loved nothing more than to be surrounded by his loved ones and family members. Whether it was a family meal, vacation, or just some quality time in the living room on his favorite chair, his favorite part of living was the comfort of his family and friends. His infectious smile, warm heart, and classic wit and charm allowed him to win the company of countless friends and the admiration and reverence of every family member. He was an inspiration to all he touched, but he was most proud of his 60-year marriage to Joleene, his “sweetheart,” and spoke openly of his endless love for his soul mate.

He will be greatly missed and is survived by his wife, Joleene; his sons, Tommy and Roger; daughter, Susan Marscellas; son-in-law, Carl Marscellas; daughter-in-law, Rowena Hanks; grandchildren, Kristan Lane, Cassie Barton, Donny Hanks, Josh Hanks, Kyle Marscellas, Molly Marscellas, Hana Hanks, Hili Hanks; and great-grandchildren, Nick Fowler, Bobby Barton, Madison Lane, and Dallas Lane.

Celebration of life will be held Friday, November 16, 2012 at 2:00 pm. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 600 Saint Andrews Road, Newport Beach, CA 92663. Donations honoring Tom Hanks can be made to Assist International, 230 Mount Hermon Road, Suite 206, Scotts Valley, CA 95066. www.assistinternational.org