William R. “Bill” Hanlon, 77, of Vero Beach, passed away on Dec. 12, 2014.
Hanlon was loved by his four step-children, Jennifer Ward, Jill Bourguignon, Jane DiGiacomo, and Mark Jackmore and his 11 grandchildren. He lost his beloved wife, Joanne Hanlon, in 2007. He leaves his many caring friends at Indian River Estates who brightened his life during his time living there.
Hanlon was born in Bronx, N.Y., and graduated from Hofstra University with a BA in business administration. He lived in many cities throughout his life including London, England but had been a Florida resident for 20 years. Most recently he resided at Indian River Estates (IRE) where he was an active and beloved community member.
At IRE, Hanlon was an ardent volunteer working on efforts such as the residents’ board, landscape design, culinary matters and input into the building of IRE’s skilled nursing facility, Willowbrook Court. While at IRE, he enjoyed playing tennis and water volleyball and volunteering to assist the residents of Willowbrook Court.
Hanlon spent most of his career working for WR Grace. During his tenure, he rose through the ranks to the senior management team working and living in the UK with responsibility for 11 European countries. Following his tenure there, he became involved in the treatment of drug and alcohol dependency holding senior positions with Seafield Group, New Horizons and Alcophope.
He also had a major role in building Hanley Hall, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center in Vero Beach, and served as the CEO of the facility.
He is remembered as an intelligent, kind and giving friend with a good sense of humor and an appreciation of life. Arrangements are under the direction of Strunk Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach. A guestbook is available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.
