John Herbert Hankinson

Hankinson, John H. "Whether you think you can, or think you can't, you're right." This being one of many life imprints that John Hankinson left with his family and those around him. It was not only his favorite saying, but also his way of being, his process of instilling unquestioning support and love. John entered eternal life November 20, 2020 at 6:20 pm. John was an incredible husband, father, grandfather and friend who always had a great love for his family, pure integrity and a heart of Gold. It's possible there was a hint of Maroon in that heart as well. He passed in complete comfort and peace surround by his loving family. Just ten minutes prior to the kick-off of the Golden Gopher Football Game. It was God's game plan. He was born February 6, 1943 in Minneapolis. Growing up he had a love for competition and athletics. At Edina High School he played baseball, basketball and football, graduating in 1961. He then quarterbacked the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers in 1964 and 1965 and was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings of the NFL and the Boston Patriots in the AFL. John had many great memories on the athletic field, always grateful for the love and support of his outstanding coaches and mentors. The influence they had on his life, led him to dedicate his energy to years of coaching youth sports. His philosophy was not to just coach his kids, or grandkids, but to coach all kids. He patiently encouraged and guided and never gave up on anyone. At the University, John met the love of his life, Bonnie Nyberg. They were married in 1966 and raised three sons, Peter, Ben and Casey. The Family would move back to Edina in 1980. Finding a home with a great back yard was a priority. For over 30 winters John flooded and maintained a beloved hockey rink. His sons, grandchildren and many of their friends will always be grateful for that decision. It was not uncommon for his sons to wake in the middle of the night and see their dad flooding. At the core, that is who John was, selfless. Professionally, John went on to a career in real estate development, establishing Sienna Corporation with two partners. Sienna ultimately developed Bearpath Golf and Country Club in Eden Prairie with Jack Nicklaus and five golf courses with Arnold Palmer in Minnesota, Arizona, North Dakota and California. While John was an accomplished quarterback on the football field, he was an even better family quarterback. Nothing mattered more to him than his family. He never missed a game for his sons nor grandchildren. He was a man of tremendous character; humble, loyal and forever giving. He always saw the best in everyone. We will never forget his unique whistle when he came home from work each day or wanted your attention on the golf course. John's life was well lived. He is survived by his wife Bonnie; his three sons and wives, Peter & Heather, Ben & Gwen and Casey & Holli; his eight grandchildren, Hannah, Kiki, Mac, Joe, Jake, Sami, Stella and Crosby. A private family service will be held and a celebration of John's life will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: John Hankinson Legacy Scholarship Fund, 5701 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55424 or online: edinaedfund.org/s/…. Finally, our family asks that in honor of John, especially in 2020, you always remember that "You can!" If you have any doubt, he'd certainly be there to tell you that you could. Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

John Herbert Hankinson

February 6, 1943 - November 20, 2020

Tributes

John Herbert Hankinson

February 6, 1943 - November 20, 2020

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