Tribute

On Friday July 16 at approximately 11:20am, surrounded by his loving family, Hank Cummings inhaled, then exhaled for the final time. Hank was 87 years old.

The smooth transition to Hank’s next journey was supported by his wife-Mary, 3 Children and their spouses-Gayle (Gord), Paul (Karin) and Brent, 2 Grandchildren-Clayton and Abby and close family friend-Ken. At last, Hank gets to go travelling once again!

Have you heard about Hank’s amazing Life?

Born in Brandon Manitoba on November 25 1933, the first of 7 children to Anna and Ralph Cummings.

In 1948 the Cummings Clan made the fantastically wise move to beautiful British Columbia. Upon arriving in Powell River Hank attended Brooks High School and found an environment where he felt comfortable and fit in seamlessly with his High School Basketball team and social circles.

It was Powell River where Hank met the lovely nurse Mary, his wife of 61 years.

Hank had developed an insatiable thirst for travel. He wanted to see the world. In 1972, with 3 kids between the ages of 6 and 10, he somehow convinced Mary to pack up and take the kids on a 2 year travel adventure of the UK and Western Europe, and what an amazing adventure and education it was! The family ended up back in Powell River. Hank’s thirst for travel deepened, dreaming of retiring from the Tin Shop department of the Paper Mill and getting back out on the road.

Over the years Hank and Mary travelled the world’s 4 corners. Mary would keep an eye on the luggage while Hank chatted with any and all. ”Come and visit” friends would say, and visit they did, reconnecting with old and new friends alike. Europe, Japan, India, New Zealand, Tahiti, Thailand all over North and South America. “Hank & Mary Cummings – Will Go Anywhere to See Anything” was firmly printed on their personal business cards!

Hank loved meeting people. He was a very loving and proud Father, Husband, Grand and Great Grandfather. He had the amazing ability to make the least known person in a room feel accepted and special. It was always about inclusion of all. He taught and inspired countless individuals with his words, yet it was his actions and integrity that always won people over. Many people, many, many people!

When Hank was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease he chose to embrace his affliction by learning as much as possible about Parkinson’s. He took part in Test Research and played a major role in the Parkinson’s documentary film “Undefeated’ for Parkinson’s Society BC.

Hank and Mary passionately created awareness through PR Parkinson’s Support Group and the Parkinson’s Superwalk. His dedication to fighting this progressive illness was inspirational.

Hank’s positivity and passion for life lives on through his family and all who called him friend.

His family would like to thank all for the outpouring of stories, love and inspiration. As well as acknowledge and thank the amazingly talented and compassionate Dr. Danielle Marentette. Always available for Hank right to the end. Dr. Danielle, your dedication is second to none.

Please standby until a decision can be confirmed for a Celebration of Life for Dad, Hank, Eagle Hank, Handsome Hank, whatever name you loved to call him.

Hank, we know you are flying the friendly skies with the eagles while the rest of us are all “Hangin’ in there.”