Robert L. Hancock

We said goodbye to our beloved Robert Laurence Hancock on October 9, 2025. Robert spent his final days at peace, with his children and grandchildren at his side. 

Robert was born to Laurence and Anina Hancock on July 13, 1948. He grew up in Glenham, NY and graduated from Beacon High School. An entrepreneur, he founded and successfully ran an environmental restoration/landscaping company and a pool manufacturing business among other ventures. He was known in both business and personal life for his great honesty. 

Robert had an irreverent sense of humor and a gift for finding common ground with others. He was a talented raconteur and observer of life and people. He took great pleasure in telling the stories of his past adventures, misadventures, and interesting characters he encountered over the years. One of his great joys was discovering the unexpected connections linking us all together. 

Robert cherished his wife, Ellen, of 51 years and deeply mourned her passing. Robert and Ellen spent later years living on their beautiful farm on Hickory Hill in Fort Plain, NY. The farm brought them great pleasure and was a realization of many of Robert’s earliest childhood dreams. Robert was well known for giving safe haven to mistreated and neglected animals, and the farm was home to many of these animal rescues throughout the years. 

Robert lived by a strong and steadfast moral compass and believed in the essential goodness of humanity. He was committed to the betterment of his community and was a patron of many causes. Robert was known to all for his generous nature, trusting spirit, and a willingness to see the best in people.

Robert is survived by his children, Elizabeth Hancock, Jesse Hancock and Emma (Nicholas) Wild; sister, Peggy Hancock; three granddaughters, Evangeline Compton, Elle Wild and Aurora Wild; four nieces and ten great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Ellen (Shively) Hancock, his parents and his nephew Captain Jonathan Shively (Gold Star). 

Robert’s passing is a great loss, but the profound impact he had on so many will live on. 

A celebration of Robert’s life will be held on November 8, 2025 from 1:00 pm-4:00 pm at the family farm. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter in Robert’s honor www.ayresanimalshelter.org/get-involved