Eleanor M. Hanka

She was born in Portland on March 13, 1930, the daughter of John and Marietta DiPietro. Eleanor graduated from Portland High School in 1948. Eleanor's first job was with E.T. Burrows Windows where she worked for a brief time. She later worked for Canal Bank. For over 26 years she was employed by Nappi Distributors until her retirement.

She leaves behind her loving husband of 37 years, Kont "Hank" Hanka. In 1975, Eleanor and Hank met at a dance at the Eagles Club on St. Johns Street. They dated for a short time and quickly realized they were made for each other. Hank took her for a ride and gave her a choice of either going shopping in Boston or getting married. The rest is history.

Eleanor had a special relationship with her five sisters. She is survived by her sisters, Petronilla Walsh, Anna Hight, Phyllis Mancini and her husband Anthony Mancini; 21 nieces and nephews; and 40 great-nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sisters, Josephine Addario and Doris Capozza and brother in laws, Joseph Addario, John J "Wally" Walsh, and Harold "Buddy" Hight.

Eleanor touched so many lives and anyone who knew her would tell you she was one of a kind. She was a generous, compassionate and thoughtful woman who found the positive in everyone, never passing judgment on anyone. She adored her family and cherished the times she spent with them. She welcomed all who walked through her door and loved to cook for them. Cooking was one of her passions. Eleanor made the best sauce and meatballs in town.

Eleanor was sick for a long time, but never gave up the fight. She leaves this world with many heavy hearts. She will live on in the minds and hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Her wake will be held on Tuesday, April 22, from 4-7 P.M., at Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St. Portland; where prayers will be recited on Wednesday, April 23 at 8:00 A.M. at the funeral home, to be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9 A.M., at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, 72 Federal St., Portland.

In lieu of flowers contributions in her memory may be made to St. Peter’s Catholic Church Beautification Fund, 72 Federal St. Portland, ME. To leave messages of condolence, or sign the online guestbook please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com.