Perry W. HANSON

HAMPTON - Perry Warden Hanson, devoted husband and father, retired Aerospace Research Engineer and avid aviator, passed away Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at the age of 82.
From a West Virginia coal mining family with limited resources, Perry entered the Naval Aviator Training Program upon graduation from Maury High School in Norfolk in June 1945, to pursue his dream of flying aircraft. He flew Navy fighter aircraft throughout his Naval career that included both active duty and the Naval Air Ready Reserve, which he continued as long as he was eligible. In 1973, he became a member of the Tidewater Soaring Society to take up the sport of Soaring. He was an active member who served as an instructor and tow pilot, served a term as President, and served as Treasurer for eight years. He oversaw and assisted in the construction of supporting airfield facilities including a hangar, named in his honor, for the club.
Perry graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute with a Bachelors Degree in Aeronautical Engineering with Honors in 1952, and a Masters Degree in Applied Mechanics in March 1953. Following college he worked for NASA Research Laboratory in Hampton, Va., as an Aeronautical Research Engineer, where he became an expert in the field of Dynamic Aeroelasticity, who made significant contributions to both Aviation and Space Programs. He was awarded the NASA medal for Excellence in Engineering Achievement in 1984 and retired as Assistant Chief of the Loads and Aeroelasticity Division in January 1986.
Quiet and unassuming, forever putting the needs of others before his own and passionately devoted to his family, Perry worked tirelessly to achieve the security and happiness of his family. He dedicated the last years of his life to providing loving care for his wife, who suffers from Alzheimer's Disease, despite his own failing health.
Perry is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Beverly (Ann) W. Hanson; two sons, Richard M. Hanson and Daniel L. Hanson; a daughter, Judy H. Silvis; six grandchildren, Joseph Hanson, Becky Brown, Jennifer Reese, and Nicholas, Justin, and Jeremiah Silvis; and a great-grandchild, Haley Brown.
His parents, Clark W. and Grace L. Hanson; and his sister, Dee Cook preceded him in death.
A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m., Dec. 9, 2009, at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home.
In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Southeastern Virginia Chapter, 6350 Center Drive, Suite 102, Norfolk, VA 23502-4107. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.