Robert "Bob" Hanson

Robert Hanson Obituary

Robert "Bob" Hanson 1951 - 2008 A native Tucsonan, Bob was the third of five children born to Robert and Evelyn Hanson. He was always pleased to explain he was a member of the first graduating class of CDO High School. With a degree in aerospace engineering from the U of A he proudly made a career of service in the USAF, dedicated to this country which he loved. During his Air Force career, Bob earned multiple advanced degrees to further his work in the space shuttle program. Retiring as Lt. Colonel Hanson, he returned to Tucson where he worked on the update of the Whipple Observatory telescope, and then worked as Director of Operations for the Pima Air and Space Museum. With a never-ending sense of humor, he took great pleasure in toying with words, teasing friends and family, and telling great jokes. Born with a genuine love and appreciation for aviation, he delighted in nearly everything oriented to flying, from building RC models, to building a 7/8 scale Hawk P6-E with an auto conversion engine. If Bob was not in the shop creating, you could find him at the airport, probably getting ready to fly his 1946 Bellanca Cruiseair. Dancing is meant to be fun and no one had a better time on the dance floor. If he wasn't learning a new dance or dance step, he was happy to teach and share. It was his personal challenge to lead a lady onto the dance floor who had never danced before and to return her to her table, thrilled that she had danced an entire piece of music never once missing a step or stepping on his toes. The grateful smiles always gave him satisfaction. Bob was preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his wife, Mary; his daughters, Melissa of Albuquerque, and Alison of Denver as well as his mother, Evelyn of Tucson, his sisters, Jane of Boston, Sally of Maui, Candace of Albuquerque; his brother, RJ of Pine Top, and two step-daughters, Amy of Tucson and Jennifer of Boulder, CO. A celebration of Bob's life will be held Saturday, October 11, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 11575 N. 1st Ave, Oro Valley.

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Published by Arizona Daily Star on Oct. 8, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Hanson

4 Entries

Patti Baumann-Ore

December 25, 2008

I haven't seen Bob since our college days at UA, and I just heard about his accident and passing. I was saddened at the loss, but what a life he led! I remember him as always upbeat, fun-loving and sincere in his friendships. He ws a serious student and had a plan for his future. As a I read the obituary, it appears that he led a full and productive life. My prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Art & Suzie Goldberg

November 30, 2008

Our heartfelt sympathy and regret to the Hanson family. Although our paths didn't cross often enough since our college days, we always knew Bob was close by if ever needed. His laughter and charisma will be remembered by all who knew him. We are grateful for his 39 years of friendship, and thank him for his service to our great Country. May you always know blue skys and fair weather. You will be missed my friend.

Greg and Clarice Drube

October 29, 2008

Even though we lived far away, Bob would always treat us like family when we came to visit. He would take us on tours of his most recent hobby or adventure. He was very caring, kind, intelligent, helpful and ALWAYS smiling! He was always so proud of his family and their accomplishments-especially his daughters, and would tell us stories. He will be truely missed! We send our sympathy and prayers to all members of his family!

Terry and Christine Drube

October 8, 2008

My deepest sympathy to the Hanson family. Bob will be missed! We loved him dearly. He will always be like a brother to me. We enjoyed so much together. I have some many fond memories. We did so much together during our time in college and after. I will always remember our road trip to New York, being there for the birth of Melissa and being part of his family in so many other ways. I was blessed to have known him and able to call him a great friend for so many years. He will always remain in our hearts.

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