William T. Hankinson

William (Pete) Hankinson was taken from this life on Tuesday, March 23, 2021. Born on March 5, 1941 in North Tonawanda and residing at Elderwood Skilled Nursing Home at Wheatfield.

Pete, his nickname given to him by his grandfather, was a graduate of University of Buffalo where he received his Masters Degree in Music Education. He served in the United States Army from 1961-1964, and was stationed in Wurzburg, Germany.

In 1969 he married the love of his life, Linda Carere. They had a wonderfully talented and loving son, Eric.

Pete had a wonderful and varied musical career. He was the guitar player for Melody Fair for 15 years. He went on tour with Brenda Lee and Ronnie Milsap. He was a composer, producer and arranger. He had accompanied Mickey Rooney, Jack Benny, Englebert Humperdink, Rita Moreno, Victor Borge, Nancy Wilson and many others.

As a teacher at Sweet Home Junior High and Niagara County Community College, he started the first Guitar Ensemble Program.

He wrote "The History of the Electric Guitar" and would give educational programs and demonstrations at local high schools and colleges.

Pete was a member of The Bison City Stompers and founder of Stringed Edition Guitar Ensemble. He traveled to California to shoot a scene in the Robert Redford movie, The Natural.

He is survived by his sisters, Susan (Jerry) Davidson and Ellen Ognibene. Also, his sister-in-law Beverly Loxterman. Nephew of Concetta Thompson (the late Franklin). Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Son of the late Wilhelm and Ellen (nee Thompson) and his brothers Patrick, Franklin and sister. Priscilla.

A celebration of life will take place at a later time.

Arrangements by the Brunner Funeral Home.