Charles Edward Hanking

CAVE CITY – Charles Edward Hanking, age 89, 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; brothers, Roland Hanking, and James Hanking.

The funeral service for Mr. Hanking will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, February 21, 2026, 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.