John Edward Hansen

John Edward Hansen died peacefully on Nov. 22, 2011.
John "Swede" was a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1946, later pursuing an M.A. in international affairs at George Washington University. He served his nation for 30 years as a naval aviator, ship's captain and a veteran of three wars. His commands included Naval Attack Squadron VA-12, USS LaSalle LPD-3, and the aircraft carrier USS Franklin Roosevelt CVA-42. He is remembered by those with whom he served with both respect and affection as an exemplary officer and commander.
He was an avid aviator and following retirement from the navy pursued his passion for flying, in the process garnering several national and international records flying ultra light aircraft.
He had a lifelong interest in literature and writing. First published in high school and Naval Academy periodicals, he went on, over the course of his life, to publish numerous poems, short stories, essays and articles. Following his retirement from a second career as an executive in the field of financial management, including the International Red Cross, he had published two works of poetry and short stories as well as a full-length novel, with yet another awaiting publication.
He was a skilled and talented craftsman and loved any art or craft involving the use of his hands. His many talents included model railroading, model ship building, stained glass design and assembly, as well as sketching, painting and cartooning.
He lived his life to the fullest, always aware of the great gift that is life and ever amazed by the glories of the universe that he's now forever a part of.
He was born in Eau Claire, Wis., on Jan. 20, 1924. He was preceded in death were by his parents, Harold F. Hansen and Florence M. Hansen; his sister, Kathryn H. Burns; and his brother, Harold F. Hansen.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 66 years, Martha R. Hansen; son, John Christopher Hansen and his wife, Annita; daughter, Victoria Hansen; daughter, Linda Drake and her husband, George; eleven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
A service for the celebration of John's life will be held in the Grand Hall at Patriots Colony on Thursday, Dec. 1 at 11 a.m. Graveside services will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, 875 North Randolph St, Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22213 or to your favorite charity. Online condolences may be expressed at www.nelsencares.com or www.vagazette.com.