Linda (Lee) Hanks, 58, of Somers, beloved wife of Roger C. Hanks, departed this life Friday, (October 29, 1999) at home, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Stafford Springs, February 11, 1941, she was the daughter of Anna H. Thompson of Somers and Alton E. Lee of Enfield, and resided in Enfield and Somers all her life. Prior to her retirement, she was employed by Scitico Market in Enfield and for the past 17 years at Rockville General Hospital. Besides Linda's husband Roger,of 26 years, and her loving parents and step-mother, Peggy, she leaves her cherished daughters and sons-in-law, Karen Wlazlo-Yourous and her husband Thomas of Southwick, MA; and Mary Beth Wlazlo-Desrosiers and her husband Donald of Trumbull; four special and unique grandchildren, Brie and Jenelle Desrosiers and Justin and Jared Yourous; a sister and brother-in-law, Sally and Bobby Lepage of Chicopee, MA; her father and mother in-law, Chester and Ethel Hanks; and her brother and sister-in-law, Clinton and Nancy Hanks, all of Somers. She also leaves several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. She was predeceased by her step-father, James L. Thompson. Linda also leaves her adored pet and companion, Wyatt. A service will be held Monday, November 1, 8 p.m., at Somers Funeral Home, 354 Main St., Somers. Burial will be private. With the loving support of her husband, family and friends, Linda faced her illness with remarkable strength, courage and grace. Her family wishes to thank all the nurses and other health care professionals who have cared for her this past year with so much love and compassion, especially her "gentle giant" Dan and her "angel of mercy" Barbara. She will be in God's care and in all our hearts forever and always.

[Published in the Hartford Courant, October 31, 1999]