East Aurora Advertiser

Obituary: Robert Averill Bancroft, Treasured Father, Man of Faith


Robert Averill Bancroft

Sept. 20, 1924-Nov. 29, 2021

Robert Averill Bancroft of East Aurora died peacefully early Monday morning, November 29. He was 97.  

Mr. Bancroft grew up on a farm in Holland, and later in Tulsa, Okla. He enlisted in the Army during WWII. He later went to college at Oklahoma State University (A&M) graduating with a degree in business. He then moved back to New York to raise his family in East Aurora. 

He was a dedicated longtime employee of Iroquois Gas Company and was also an active member of Baker Memorial United Methodist Church.

Mr. Bancroft was a kind man with a big heart. He laughed freely, enjoying the company of family and friends. At family gatherings, he cut up the dance floor with a flare. He shared many camping trips with his wife Bev and his children, enjoying documenting them on film and in movies.

Known as Robert and as Bob, he was also immensely proud of all his family, children and grandchildren. Having lived a full, rich life, his faith allows him to share everlasting life with the loved ones who predeceased him, including his wife Beverly Bancroft, sons Bruce and Brian Bancroft, daughter Bonnie Hawley, and grandson Eric Hawley. 

He will be remembered with profound love by those who survive him, including his daughter Barbara (Michael Gilmore) Bancroft; grandchildren Daniel (Dana) Hawley, Alison Gilmore, and Jennifer Hawley; and great-grandchildren Danny, Dereck and Dominic Hawley.

Kenneth Howe Funeral Home made all the arrangements.

The family will be present for visitation Thurs., Dec. 9 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home, 64 Maple St., East Aurora. 

Visitation will be followed with a memorial service held for both Robert and Beverly Bancroft at 7 p.m.

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