Joseph L. Hancock age 89, of Lima passed away 10:45 a.m., Saturday, September 24, 2022 at his residence. He was born July 19, 1933 in Sidney, Ohio to the late Lavern ’Rusty’ and Blanche (Davis) Hancock. He married Leona Mowery Nov. 13, 1950 and she preceded him in death Feb. 23, 2010.
Joseph was a tool and die maker having retired from his company, City Tool & Die. He had worked at Excello Corp and was an engineer working on components of the original Apollo Space program rocket and designed tooling to produce components of jet aircraft engines. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed riding his motorcycle, taking long country rides. He lived to go for a swim after it turned dark to relax and enjoy life. He also was a pilot and flew both Cesena and ultralight aircraft.
Survivors include 3 sons: Michael Hancock of Lima, Patrick (Lynn) Hancock of Independence, KY and Timothy Hancock of Deer Lodge, Montana; 2 daughters: Shirley (Michael) Mertz of Sidney and Theresa (Walter) Morlock of Edon, OH; 15 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a sister Luetta Ballenger.
The family will receive friends noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022 at Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, Cridersville. The memorial will follow at 2 with grandson: Joseph Mertz officiating, and entombment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society.

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