Coventry – Henry “Hank” Gankofskie, 90, of Cedar Swamp Road, Coventry died Friday, February 7th, 2014 at his home after a short illness. He was the loving husband of the late Lillian Gankofskie. Born in Manchester, CT. he was the son of the late Stephen and Katherine (Demko) Gankofskie.
Henry worked for Case Bros. and Cell-U Products of Manchester before his retirement in 1986. He was a WWII Army veteran serving in France and Central Europe where he received a Bronze Star.
For most of his life, Hank owned and raised cows on his farm in Coventry. He also planted and maintained a large vegetable garden every year for his family. His joy was being part of the land that he loved. Hank is survived by his sons; Kenneth and wife Beth of Venice, FL, David and wife Margaret of Willington, CT. and Richard and wife Catherine of Kennesaw, GA. 6 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. He was predeceased by his brother George Gankofskie of Manchester. A memorial service and interment will take place in the spring at The Concordia Lutheran Church Memorial Garden in Manchester. Donations may be made in his memory to The Concordia Lutheran Church, 40 Pitkin St. Manchester CT. 06040. Arrangements have been provided by the Gilman Funeral Home. For a Memorial guestbook visit www.gilmanandvalade.com
Joan and Donald DeBella
Dear Ken and Beth, You are in our thoughts and prayers,
Love joan and don
Kathy Link
I am so very saddened to hear of Mr. G’s passing. I loved the conversations we had at my dad”s store while he was waiting for his prescriptions. So sweet, funny, kind, and ever the gentleman is he- always a story to tell. I will truly miss him, as I do Mrs. G. Two angels. My thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathy to you all.
Ed and Sue Grace
Dear Ken and Beth and Family,
Our sincere sympathy on your loss of Hank. I always admired him as one of those strong, get it done, old school New England farmers who took pride in the land and his ability to make it produce for the family. His physical abilities (well into what would be old age for most other people!) and straightforward approach to life and it’s challenges were something I appreciated every time I met him, and admired every time I ran by the garden, cows and fields on Cedar Swamp.
Ed and Sue Grace
Susan and Maurice Freleaux
Ken and Beth,
Love and prayers to you and your family. Wishing you strength today and comfort for the days ahead. Cherished memories will help keep Hank close in your heart.
Love,
Susan and Maurice
Karen Bowen
To the Gankofskie Family, Nick and I are so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. Our Thoughts and Prayers go out to all of you. Karen Nick and Nicole Bowen
Bill Simmons
Dear Ken, Beth & all the family,
I am sorry to hear about Hank, and have fond memories of Hank, Lil and being at the house in Coventry and very much enjoying all their generous hospitality. Hank’s garden was great, and I remember the best corn on the cob I think I ever had was one that Hank had just freshly picked and Lil fixed up.
My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Bill Simmons
Susan Luichinger
Dear Ken and Beth, David and Margaret, Richard and Catherine,
How sad to hear of Hank’s passing. I can not help but think of him with a smile and remember the twinkle in his eyes. We will always remember his(and Lil’s) kindnesses to us especially awakening Adam’s fondness for farms, tractors and COWS!! Hugs to all, Susan and family
Nancy and Charles Bradley
Our deepest sympathy to the family. May your memories give you comfort during this difficult time.
Nancy and Charles Bradley
Our deepest sympathy.
Wil Duchesneau
I was sorry to here of Hank’s passing. Another member of the “Greatest Generation” is gone. He is typical of so many parents of their time who worked hard for their families to make a good life. I am often reminded of this when I meet with my Dad.
Hank was a stong indiviual who was fair minded and out-going to others. He raised outstanding sons who adopted his positive qualities. You can feel comforted in that fact he lived a long and satisfying life.
My thoughts are with you. Please let me know about the memorial service.
Wil