Obituaries

Robert Berkley Hancock, III

Robert B. “Berk” Hancock III, 64, passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2022. He was a lifelong resident of Newport News and a graduate of Ferguson High School. Berk was employed at Pepsi and Primerica in his early years and then went on to become a master gardener and owner of Berk’s Custom Lawns. Berk later made a career as finance director at Denbigh/Pearson Toyota. He was a lifelong member of Hidenwood Presbyterian Church, and always enjoyed attending the bible conferences at Massanetta Springs. In his spare time, he enjoyed camping with family at Thousand Trails in Gloucester, boating and spending time with his fellow boaters at James River Marina, woodworking, and was an avid car enthusiast. However, Berk’s greatest love was spending time with his family. Especially his children, and his grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as “Pappy” in his later years.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Robert Berkley Hancock Jr. and Doris Sherman Hancock. He is survived by his sons, Christopher Berkley Hancock, and his wife, Heather, Jason Hancock, and his girlfriend, Rachel; grandchildren, Taylor and Chase Hancock; sister, Robin Bateman; niece, Lindsey Nichol and her husband, Kevin; and great-nephews, Kaleb and Blake Nichol. Berk is also survived by his beloved dog Madison.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Cheung with Virginia Eye Consultants and his staff. Thanks to Dr. Cheung and the special gift of a donor, Berk was able to restore vision which allowed him to see his beautiful family again in his last year of life.
In celebration of his life, a graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 17, 2022, at Peninsula Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Donate Life at www.donatelife.net.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

17 Comments

  1. Jim Bellflower

    Berk was my friend from day one when we worked together on the York Seaford Football League. Now with only my memories of the time we shared through the twisted turns of life, I have a true friend that now lives with our Heavenly Father. I have comfort knowing that when Berk took his last breath on earth, he took his first breath in Heaven. Rest In Peace my friend.

  2. Robin Hancock Bateman

    God knows our hearts are heavy at this time. We know that Berk loved each and everyone of us. It is comforting that he is reunited with our family in Heaven and is no longer in pain or suffering. Berk had faith in God, and love for everyone he met. My brother and my best friend, will be dearly missed.

    I wish I could have protected you just a while longer. I know in my heart you are made whole again with our Lord and Savior.

  3. Robin Hancock Bateman

    God knows our hearts are heavy at this time. Berk loved each and every one of us. It is comforting to know he is reunited with our family in Heaven and is no longer in pain or suffering. Berk had faith in God and love for everyone he met. My brother and best friend, will be dearly missed.

    I wish I could have protected you just a while longer. I know in my heart you are made whole again with our Lord and Savior.

  4. Lindsey Nichol

    Berk you were an extraordinary uncle. Words don’t do justice of all the memories I have of you. You were kind, honest, strong, loving and funny. Whenever I think of you, I think about how patient and soft you were with me; like a daughter you never had. It was an absolute honor to be your niece. I will carry in my heart your elaborate stories, hilarious jokes and our special bond.

    Just like when I was little and you would play restaurant with me, “it was a pleasure sir”.

    I love you. I miss you. Give all the love to nana and grand. Until we meet on the other side of the stars…

  5. Charles and Betty Jane Duncan

    We send our deepest condolences to all the family. We will always remember special times and stories shared with all your family at the campground, as well as dealing with Berk at Toyota. God bless and comfort this special family at this difficult time.

  6. Edward Serviss

    I sure am gonna miss our grandpa breakfast and lunch time together. You can never be replaced. We all will keep your memory alive for our family. Especially the grandchildren. Now you rest. Rest In Peace Pappy. I can’t wait until we are together again.

  7. Gary & Carol Edmondson

    So very sorry to hear of the sudden loss of Berk. The family will be held in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We will always keep the memories of Berk close in heart.

  8. Edward Serviss

    Berk was Pappy and I am Papa. The one thing in common are our grandchildren. I miss the grandpa lunches and breakfast we had. Until we are together again, Rest In Peace my friend.

  9. Kevin Bloxom

    To my best man, to my oldest friend. We drifted apart over the years and at my loss. Always quick with a joke, a laugh, and a good time. We sailed together, vacationed together, and grew up together. Not a childhood memory exists without you. We could be absent for years and in minutes we would be laughing again. The world was definitely a much better place with you in it. I will miss you brother

    • Laurie Drucker

      Kevin, I vividly remember you and Berk, from Hidenwood Elementary through our graduation at FHS! I wasn’t good friends with Berk but I remember him being “very tall” (I am still “very short”). I loved reading the obit and learning what he did after graduation. Are you still in NN? I bike past your old house in James Landing quite often.

      • Kevin

        Laurie, I am now living in Seaford. It’s been a long time and I too remember you from Hidenwood (Mrs. Abbot’s 2nd grade) through FHS. Hope you are well.

  10. Kathy Booth Mogelinski

    Berky and I grew up together on Langhorne Rd- building forts, riding bikes, playing house! He was the dad, i was the mom and all the other kids on the street were the children!! We hadnt seen each other in many years but his humor will not be forgotten. My brother steve kept me up to date on Berky and on everyone on langhorne rd! Fondest memories of my childhood involved Berky!! Rest in peace!

  11. Suzy Scott

    I too grew up on Langhorne Rd and remember how crazy and funny Berky was. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Rest in peace!

  12. Ron Johnson

    The memories we shared will always remain close to my heart. Steadfast and sure you were always there for me in my troubles. It is with deep regret and sorrow that I learned of your passing, and I know we will meet again soon enough, God willing; I was your next-door neighbor here, and it will be no different there. You made a huge impact on all our lives, and I am very grateful. Until then my friend, rest in peace. Amen.

  13. patrice odwyer

    My grandmother lived on Langhorne drive and we would stay with her every summer when I was young. I remember Berky and Robin, as well as their parents. It was a wonderful time in my life as well as my siblings. I spent many an hour in their house and the house they built next door….I’m sure he will be missed…and yes he was tall.

    Robin…I am so sorry and my heart goes out to you.
    Patrice

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