Retired computer whiz, handyman, and tomato whisperer Joseph Karl Hancock passed away on June 16, 2021, at the age of 69 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest.
Karl was born in Roosevelt, Utah, the third of seven children and served an LDS mission in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He completed his bachelor’s degree at Utah State University and a Masters of Business Administration from Brigham Young University. He married his beautiful, fiery wife, Kioko, in 1982 and had four beautiful children, Melissa, Matt, Nate and Natalie and one incredible surprise, Jordan. His family was the most important part of his life.
The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Karl. He loved spending a quiet evening with his children and grandchildren. He loved a good meal. Once, while visiting Philadelphia, he enjoyed Hershel’s Rueben sandwich so much that he went back to Reading Terminal right before his flight for another bite of the “best sandwich he’s ever had.”
Karl had a lifelong love affair with gardening. He could coax a dying daisy to full vibrant color with his green thumb and his tomatoes made the staunchest tomato hater a lover of the ripe, round fruit. For his latest tomatoes, he procured every kind of seed and nurtured them using a combination of fertile soil, UV light, and tender care. Without a doubt, this latest harvest will be the most memorable.
If there ever was a problem, Karl could MacGyver his way out of it. Car has a broken fuel pump? Road trip ready the next day. IT problem? Outsource it to Karl. He was the quintessential, do-it-yourself handyman and nothing stayed broken for long with Karl around.
Most importantly, he had an uncanny ability to find happiness in his daily activities and an unquenchable spirit even in the greatest of adversity. His spirit and steadfastness were contagious. His faith in God and Christ never waned. You could face any challenge with him by your side and count on him at any moment, night or day. Even as Karl’s physical strength waned in his last months, when you walked into the room, he would immediately pull himself up, slap an awkward grin on his face, and say “hello” and your day would immediately be the better for it.
With his passing our hearts are broken. Without a doubt, we’ll miss him. Without a doubt, this world is a better place because of him. We love you, dad.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at 11:30 am at the Union 4th Ward, 1834 East Creek Road (7995 South), Sandy Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 10:00 am – 11:15 am at the church. Interment to follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East, Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, Utah.
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Cindy Lou Poliska
Karl will always stand out to me as a man of great integrity. I always appreciated his opinion and his wisdom. I was lucky to work with him for so many years and will always be grateful that he brought me back to the company after I had left. My heart goes out to you, Kioko and your sweet family. I was at the funeral today and was so touched by all of the kids and family who spoke. Sending love to you all.
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of Karl. I worked with him at DMBA for many years. He was remembered with high regards from all of his colleagues. He was one of the best. I am sending prayers of comfort to his family at this time.
Donna McRreavy
Dearest Kioko and family
We are so saddened by the news of your sweet husband's passing. It must have been so hard to watch him suffer so much. At least as we know he is not suffering anymore. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May our Father give you the strength to go on without too much pain.
We love you,