Obituaries

Carl Edmund Hanker, 49, of Chippewa Falls, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026,
at Mayo Clinic Health Systems – Eau Claire.
Carl was born to Leonard and Janet (Willis) Hanker on February 12, 1976, in Joliet,
Illinois. He was a 1994 graduate of Lincoln High School in Alma Center, WI. Carl was an
auto mechanic for 20-plus years. Carl married Pamela on July 17, 2009. Carl enjoyed being
around friends and family. He loved working on vehicles until he couldn’t anymore due
to health reasons. He loved building Legos with his daughter. Alexia was his pride and
joy. He started teaching Alexia and Pam how to work on cars; it was family bonding
for the three.
Carl is survived by his wife, Pamela (Benzschawel); and his daughter, Alexia Hanker.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Janet; and his brother, Brad Hanker.
A remembrance gathering will be held on May 16th, 2026. Location to be determined.
Family and friends may leave condolences online at www.smithfuneralec.com.