Richard Lawrence Hansford

1919 - 2014

Richard Lawrence Hansford

Richard Lawrence Hansford, 95, passed from life in the body to life in the Spirit on December 29, 2014.

He was born on October 10, 1919 in Elkins, West Virginia and moved to Akron four years later to Spicer Street, which is now property of the University of Akron. He attended Spicer Elementary and Central High schools. His association with the University dates from January 1941 to June 1990. On October 16, 1941 he interrupted his college education to enlist in the United States Army and served until December 1945. He was an instructor of troops in Texas and later deployed in the Southwest Theater of Operations in New Guinea, the Philippines and Japan.

He returned to the University of Akron and earned a B.S. "with distinction" in June 1949. As a student he served as the President of the Student Body, Cadet Colonel of ROTC, lettered in wrestling and gymnastics, served several honor societies, and pledged Phi Sigma Kappa.

His career with the University of Akron began in June 1949. He served for forty one years, earning the title of Vice President and Dean of Student Services, providing leadership, establishing policies and oversight in the recruitment, enrollment and retention of students. He created the University's student Honors program in 1974, which is now the Honors College. He proposed that a kangaroo become the University's mascot.

At his retirement he created the Hansford Student Emergency Loan Fund, and the Hansford Chapter of the National Residence Hall Honorary. Since his retirement, the University has presented him with the Alumni Honor Award, named him a member of the University's Sports Hall of Fame, and conferred upon him the Doctor of Humane letters.

He was preceded in death by his son, Lawrence. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughter, Stacy; and Grandson, Joshua.

A Memorial service will be held on January 6, 2015 at the First Congregational Church of Akron, 292 E. Market Street, Akron, OH 44308. Services will begin at 11AM, and dinner will be provided afterward. Services will be officiated by Rev. George J. Kostan.