Marshall Pierce Hancock

UPDATE:  SERVICE TIME ANNOUNCEMENT

"To honor and celebrate the light that Marshall brought to the world, we will have a joyous celebration with some of his favorite things on Sunday , November 10th from 11AM to 2PM at the Potawatomi Zoo, in the Picnic Grove.

If you wish to share this time together with us, please email, marshallpiercefoundation@gmail.com with the number attending and you will receive an e-ticket to enter the zoo.

Marshall Pierce Hancock, age 2, passed away unexpectedly on September 23, 2024, at Memorial Hospital of South Bend. Born on February 27, 2022, in South Bend, Indiana, Marshall brought immeasurable joy and love into the lives of his parents, Michael R. and Morgan K. Donat Hancock.

Marshall is survived by his loving parents, Mike and Morgan Hancock of Bremen. He will be forever cherished by his paternal grandparents, “Grandpa Ray” and “Grandma Debbie” Hancock, and his maternal grandparents, “PePaw Dale” and “MeMaw Maureen” Donat. His great-grandparents, Don Smith and Katie Donat, will continue to hold his memory in their hearts.

Surviving family members include his aunts and uncles Blair (Bia) Donat, Matthew Hancock, Andy (Cloey) Hancock, Adam (Britney) Hancock, and cousins Brock, Maddox, and Emma. Marshall was also dearly loved by his special great-aunts, “Kash” Kathy Kalman and “Eieen” Eilleen (and “MaMont” LaMonte Heflick) Kalman, along with numerous "bonus aunts and uncles" who shared a deep bond with him.

Marshall was preceded in death by his great-grandmother, Patricia “Patty” Smith, great-grandparents, Richard and Mary Hancock, great-grandparents, Frankie and Georganna Kalman, great-grandfather, Dale Donat, great-aunt Ann Kalman, great-aunt Mary Thomas, and great-uncle Scott Hancock.

Marshall was a vibrant and adventurous two-year-old whose laughter and boundless energy filled every room. He had a way of bringing light and joy to all who were blessed to know him. His favorite pastimes included watching SpongeBob SquarePants, Bluey, and Curious George, and he had a delightful way of making every day brighter. His infectious giggles, warm hugs, and playful spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Marshall had an extraordinary spirit, one that embraced the wonders of the world around him. He also had an extraordinary curiosity about the world, with a special fondness for butterflies, which he lovingly called "Foo-Flies." He spent countless joyful hours with his dad in the shop, exploring, learning, and marveling at anything with an  engine, especially  semis, planes, boats, and tractors. Marshall loved the great outdoors, taking pride in helping with “jobs,” particularly checking on his beloved “chicky-poos” and fishing. His four loyal puppies—Case, Lambeau, Massey, and Tito—were his constant companions, sharing in his adventurous spirit.

Despite his short time on Earth, Marshall's legacy is one of pure love and boundless joy. He made friends effortlessly, knowing no strangers, and his radiant energy made him the heart of every gathering. Though his time on Earth was brief, Marshall's legacy will live on through the lives he touched. Through his passing, Marshall became a Donor Hero, selflessly giving the gift of life to others—a legacy of generosity that will never be forgotten by many families. His kindness and spirit will always be remembered.

A remembrance service will be held on Sunday, Nov. 10, from 11am-2pm at the Pot to celebrate Marshall’s beautiful life at the Potawatomi Zoo in the Picnic Grove.

Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with his care.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Marshall’s memory may be made to the Beacon Children’s Hospital at www.beaconhealthsystem.org .

To light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort, please follow the links on the tribute wall tab above.