Charles Edward Hanking, age 89, of Cave City, Kentucky, went home to be with the Lord on February 16, 2026.
Born on October 15th, 1936, he was known to many as a master carpenter, builder, and designer. He served as a pastor and teacher, faithfully guiding others to Christ with wisdom, conviction, and strength from God’s word. His greatest passion was proclaiming the hope of Christ to the lost.
A proud United States Army veteran of the Korean Conflict, he carried himself with discipline and resilience. A graduate of Clear Creek Bible college in Pineville Ky, Charles was also an outdoorsman at heart — a fisherman, hunter, and trapper who felt most at home in God’s creation. Whether in a workshop, a pulpit, or the woods, he worked with purpose and integrity.
Charles was a loving husband, doting father, grandfather, and father-in-law. He is survived by his brother Robert (Shirley) Hanking, son in law Russell Lievers, grandson Aaron (Viktoria) Lievers, and granddaughter Hayley (Jonathon) Pierre as well as numerous other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Lorene Coomer Hanking, his beloved daughter Karen Lievers, his parents Harvey and Lois Hanking, his brother Roland Hanking, and his brother James Hanking.
The funeral service for Mr. Hanking will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, February 21st at A.F. Crow & Son Funeral Home with burial in the Hiseville Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by the DAV Chapter 20. Visitation will begin Friday, February 20th 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM, and Saturday morning until time for the service at the funeral home.
Charles lived a full and vibrant life, and leaves behind a legacy of faith, craftsmanship, and devotion that will not be forgotten.
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