Alexander "Alex" J. A. Hankel

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Alexander “Alex” Hankel, a man of endless talents, a fierce loyalty, and a loving heart. He left us on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the age of 49, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, kindness, and delicious BBQ.

A proud New Orleanian born on December 7, 1975, Alex carried the spirit of the city with him everywhere, even after moving to State Line, MS. He was a graduate of Brother Martin High School (1994), Delgado, and LSU, where he earned his degree in Graphic Design — a testament to his creative eye.

Alex was a builder and a maker. With his hands, he could bring anything to life. As the owner of Cross Cut and Walk Studios and former owner of Hankel Electric, he channeled his mechanical mind into every project, whether it was for work or for passion. His determination shone brightest in his woodworking, where he once took a cast-off motor and transformed it into a fully functional lathe — a symbol of his ability to see potential where others saw only scrap. He was a die-hard fan of the Saints and LSU, but nothing brought him more joy than sharing a meal with those he loved.

He inherited a special touch from his father, grilling a steak so perfectly it became the stuff of legend. Alex’s love for music, golf, fishing, and skateboarding was as vast as his circle of friends, but what people will remember most was his kind and gentle heart, especially for children. He adored making them laugh and was often the one to make sure every kid at the party had a smile on their face. He was a proud member of Hog Dat Nation, a brotherhood forged in camaraderie and cooking.

Alex is survived by his adoring wife and soulmate, Tara Clement Hankel; his loving mother, Susan Tribou Hankel; his brother and friend, Andrew Yung Hankel (Elizabeth); and his nephew, Alexander. He is also survived by his aunts Joycelyn, Hallie, and Debbie (Pete); uncles Ricky, Daryl (Yordanka), and Arthur (Jeanne); and numerous cousins and friends. He was reunited in death with his beloved father and best friend, Alan Hankel; his grandparents Nathan and Joyce Hankel and Tillman and Claire Tribou; and his uncle Nathan Hankel.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Alex’s life at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, with visitation from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and a Mass at noon. Flowers are welcome as are donations in his memory to his Hogs for the Cause team, Hog Dat Nation at https://www.hogdatnation.com/.