Henry Raymond Ganc

Henry R. Ganc, known affectionately as Hank, died peacefully at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware on Saturday, September 13, 2014 at the age of 76.

Henry was born in Drums, Pennsylvania on April 2, 1938 and spent a portion of his childhood on a farm near the Pocono Mountains. Although he lived the majority of his life in Wilmington, Delaware, Henry’s early years on the farm certainly helped to shape the hardworking man that he grew to be. He was meticulous, observant and patient with regard to any task and worked diligently to instill these values in his children. Those who knew him well would often hear him say: Be the job big or small, do it right or not at all”and he meant it.

Henry was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather and was undeniably proud of his family. Following his marriage to Elizabeth in 1959, the couple welcomed four children while Henry worked as a stonemason with BAC local #1. Despite hours of labor-intensive work each day, Henry managed to spend time with his children and encouraged them to take part in some of his favorite activities, such as crabbing and repair work.

During his retirement, Henry discovered a hidden talent”the art of woodworking. In the basement of his Wilmington home, Henry’s woodshop became his sanctuary and his family and friends often watched in awe of his precision and craftsmanship. Henry spent hours delicately building model locomotives, airplanes and automobiles without ever using a single nail or screw. Henry eventually donated many of these handmade models to local firehouses and families.

Everyone that had the privilege to know Henry would agree that, above all, he was a good soul. He would help anyone and put others’ needs before his own. God has indeed gained another angel, and a handy one at that.

Henry is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ganc; his four children, Deborah Hotra, Christine Ball, Nicholas Ganc and Vincent Ganc; his seven grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

The family will be celebrating Henry’s life privately. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions in Henry’s name be made to the American Cancer Society 92 Read’s Way, Ste. 205, New Castle, DE 19720.