Louis Franklin Hanks of Vero Beach, a gentleman and a gentle man, peacefully passed on April 23, two days shy of his 93rd birthday. His wife of 61 years, Dama, and family were by his side. He was a devoted husband to Dama and loving father to his children James Michael, Dama Lou, Mark Stephen and daughter-in-law Dianne, and Robert Howe. He was an inspiration to his 8 grandchildren-Todd, Michael and Matthew; Leland and Anna; Emily and Mia; and Amy Brener. He was blessed with 6 great grandchildren; and was also very close to nephews Bob and Bill Hanks of Austin, TX.
Born in Peason, LA., he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1939, and served on six ships, three of which were torpedoed during WW 2. He also participated in the amphibious landing on Zuma Shima as a member of the Beach Battalion, as well as other missions. He retired in 1959 from the US Navy as a Chief Guided Missileman while in Oxnard, CA . As a civilian, he continued in defense work at Raytheon and NEMESIS, a civil service defense department. He retired in1984. Louis volunteered in the Boy Scouts of American for 40 years, as a scoutmaster and supporter .He was the recipient of Scouting's highest award- the Silver Beaver. He was a 50-year plus member of the Masonic Lodge, a 32nd degree Mason and a Shriner. Along with his wife, he was made a Life Member of the Port Hueneme ( Ca ) Chamber of Commerce and Parent Teacher Association, as well as long time member of the Navy League of the United States. A Louis F. Hanks award is presented annually by the Navy League Council to an outstanding Hueneme High School Naval ROTC cadet. He was a charter member of the General S. Patton Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. Louis was also greatly interested in the Hanks Geneology, and was a researcher for Adin Baber's The Hanks Family of Virginia and Westward. Louis moved to Vero Beach in 2003 with his wife, and became an active member of the Walkers Glen Homeowner's Association, and developed many close friends.There will be a military service in June, TBA. Many thanks to family and friends for their love and support. Donations in his memory may be made to The Humane Society, 6230 77th St, Vero Beach, FL 32967. View obituary and share memories at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com