Hanks, William Vilas, age 86, born February 25, 1929, died Thursday, December 24, 2015. We mourn the loss of an authentic gentleman, honorable father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, husband, son, brother, loved and loyal friend, inspirational patriarch, and fine American patriot.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana to Mary Louise Haley of Tulsa and William Vilas Hanks of Madison, Wisconsin. We celebrate a long life well lived, and in his own words, "l have had a helluva ride." Each one of us who have been blessed to have known him, have been touched by his integrity, fortitude and compassion. He served his beloved country, flying F-86 sabre jets while serving in the United States Air Force. Bill was honored to fly as wingman to Brigadier General Chuck Yeager. He was a great inspiration, showing us all by example how to live, to give, to love, and be courageous, humble, and positive. Bill had a highly contagious sense of humor and wit. He Loved his Lord and his family beyond measure.

In 1952, Bill married the love of his life Lorelei Jackson Hanks, who preceded him in death by 9 years. He was Vice President of Ozark Mahoning Company in Tulsa for 35 years. Bill held numerous honorary titles during his life, including serving as chairman of the Boards of Philbrook Art Museum, Hillcrest Hospital, West Side YMCA for several years. Bill was a member of the Quiet Birdmen in Tulsa, Psi Upsilon Fraternity, Southern Hills Country Club, First Presbyterian Church, Tulsa and many others. He also was generous with several civic and charitable organizations. He had a passion for woodturning, sailing, flying, reading, tinkering, travel and enjoyed his many wonderful friendships.

Bill was blessed by the beautiful opportunity to experience love again in the past four years with Lucille Amis of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Joanie, son, Bill; four grandchildren, 1 Great-Grandson, and sister, Marilou Hanks Adams.

He truly defined the phrase duty, honor and country in all aspects of his life.

Service will be held on Saturday January 16, 2016 at 1 :00pm - First Presbyterian Church Tulsa, Oklahoma. Interment of burial at Forest Hill in the family plot in Madison, Wisconsin.

In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Mount Vernon Ladies Association of the Union, The Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin or Philbrook Museum of Art, Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Special thanks to all who lovingly assisted Bill in his steadfast ten-month courageous battle with cancer. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233