Rockell Hankin

Rockell Nathan Hankin, beloved husband, father, friend, business executive and longtime chairman of The Kavli Foundation, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children.
Rock led a long and successful career, rising from one of the youngest partners to managing partner of Price Waterhouse’s Warner Center office in Los Angeles. He went on to chair the boards of The Kavli Foundation, Kavlico and Semtech, and served on more than a dozen other corporate boards. He also taught entrepreneurship and corporate governance at UNC Charlotte and USC School of Law.
Rock was a firm believer that basic science research could benefit all humanity. Of his many endeavors, he felt that the opportunity to support basic science research through his service to The Kavli Foundation was the most profound. Rock’s leadership shaped the foundation’s development over more than 20 years, including more than a decade as board chair. He was instrumental in the creation of the Kavli Institutes and The Kavli Prize, a global scientific honor.
Throughout his life, Rock loved adventure and staying active. Among his favorite activities were racquetball and aviation. He was a certified pilot and particularly enjoyed flying and taking his family on adventures in his single engine planes.
Most of all, Rock was a devoted family man. He cared deeply for his wife, Lisa. He was incredibly proud of their two children, Kathyrine and Rocky, both of whom are pursuing graduate degrees. He is also survived by his brother Theodore Hankin.
In honor of Rock and his lasting legacy, there will be a celebration of life. Associates should reach out to The Kavli Foundation. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Rock’s memory to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) or the Hoag Hospital Foundation.