HANKINSON, William George (Bill)

William George "Bill" Hankinson, 67, of Glendale, Arizona, passed away May 6, 2003. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, April 19, 1936 graduating from James Madison High School in Brooklyn, and then achieving an AA degree from Glendale Community College. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, and was a member of the New York City Fire Department from 1957 to 1962, and the Phoenix Police Department from 1962 to 1966. He had a 35 year career with the Arizona Insurance Industry, and retired from the Arizona State Compensation fund in June of 2001. He was the president of the Phoenix Festival of music in 1991 and 1993 whose artistic director was John Massard, and was the president of the Phoenix Symphony Friends in 1999/2000 and 2000/2001. He was also a published poet, having written "Word Etchings" in 1975. He was also a member of Phi Theta Kappa, a two year honor society. He enjoyed ocean sailing, and playing golf with his friends of almost 40 years. His greatest pleasure, however was his wife of 43 years, Benita. His daughter Tracey Theisen, and Shawn Tyslenko, as well as his grandchildren, Alexandra and Connor Theisen also survive him. He was a sincere, honest man, called friend by many, and all will miss him greatly. Visitation will be held Thursday May 8, 2003 from 6:30-8:30 P.M. at Regency Mortuary, 9850 W. Thunderbird Road, Sun City., AZ, with a funeral service Friday, May 9, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. at the same location. Interment will be at Phoenix Memorial Park. Donations in his memory can be directed to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, Arizona, 85014. Final arrangements were entrusted to Regency Mortuary. Published in the Arizona Republic on 5/8/2003.