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Dan Hanson Obituary

May 4, 1948 - September 19, 2009 He will be loved and forever missed by his partner of 33 years, Keith Grennier; his sister, Suzanne Hanson and husband, David Thomas; niece, Greta Hanson and fiance', William Lammers; nephew Eric Hanson and wife, Suzanne and their children Benjamin and Julia. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois, and father, the Honorable Charles S. Hanson, former Supreme Court Justice of South Dakota. Prior to moving to the Twin Cities in 1975, Dan received his Bachelor and Juris Doctorate degrees from the University of South Dakota and engaged in the private practice of law for several years in Belle Fourche, South Dakota. He was employed for many years by Thomson Reuters (formerly West Publishing) where he had the privilege of working with many close friends and associates. Prior to working at Thomson Reuters Dan had a long career working at Allstate Insurance Company and was fortunate to have developed many valued friendships from that working relationship, as well. Dan was an active and involved member of the GLBT community for many years, and worked tirelessly throughout his life to promote human rights and civil liberties for all persons. He was on the Minneapolis Civil Rights Commission, Board Member of the Minnesota Civil Liberties Union, co-founder of the Minnesota Gay and Lesbian Legal Assistance, and lastly and most closely to his heart, Board Member and volunteer at the Quatrefoil Library. Keith and family members request that in lieu of flowers memorials be sent in Dan's memory to the Quatrefoil Library, 1619 Dayton Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104. An event celebrating Dan's life will be announced once arrangements are finalized.


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Published by Pioneer Press on Sep. 21, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Dan Hanson

Sponsored by Suzanne Hanson, Dan's sister.

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Jean Gully-Guy

January 22, 2010

To Dan's partner, Keith, and to Dan's family,

I knew Dan as a law student at USD. Words such as kind, sensitive, and joyful come to mind when thinking of Dan. His commitment to Civil Rights is not a surprise. One time I accompanied him to the Pine Ridge Reservation, where he did some legal work for Native Americans. I am so happy his life continued to inspire others, because he always inspired me. With deepest sympathy,

Jean Guy

Elaine Axtell-Thomas

January 17, 2010

To Dan's partner, Keith, and to Dan's family,

Obviously, I haven't been in touch with Dan in many years, since I have just heard of his passing. I knew Dan when he was in law school at USD, and he was always engaging and fun to be around. I am deeply saddened to know he has gone, and I didn't have a chance to witness him living a fulfilling life with so many loving friends. Dan has left lasting fond memories for those of us who knew him in Vermillion. With deepest sympathy,

Elaine

Dan Sheehan

November 9, 2009

My condolences and best wishes are extended to the Hanson family. I shall miss my friend and remember with fondness the times we shared growing up in Pierre. Dan Sheehan

Denise Luke

October 6, 2009

When I heard that "Dan Hanson" died, I wouldn't let myself believe that it was the Dan Hanson I had known and liked so well at work for many years. I am deeply saddened at the loss of the this good, kind man and I send my deepest sympathies to his partner, his family and friends.

Chris Duff & Mark Westman

October 5, 2009

We are stunned and saddened to learn of Dan's passing much too soon. Keith, since reading the notice yesterday we have been filled with memories of good times and cheer from our years living across Marshall Avenue from the two of you. Dan's intelligence and commitment to GLBT causes were exceeded only by his warmth and generosity as a host. We hope your pain and sorrow is softened by the knowledge of the good work Dan did in his life for justice and equity. Fondly,

October 4, 2009

My condolences to Keith and Dan's family. At our Class reunion in 2006, I met Keith and Dan and was impressed by their friendship to all in our hometown. So glad I had the chance to get to know both of you. I am sure that Dan will be missed by many.

Rebecca O'Hearn Apple Valley

Robert Byrd

October 4, 2009

Keith,

It must be awfully comforting to you to read all these wonderful comments from Dan's many friends. Needless to say, Dan has been such a profound influence on my life. He introduced me to my first partner (who later became my best friend), and brightened and enriched my life with his great intellect, kindness and passion. I will miss him more than words can express. It's so true that the good die young! The only light I see through this very dark tunnel is that I still have you. Love, Robert

Mike Kelley

October 1, 2009

It was such a great pleasure to see Dan & Keith at our High School reunion in 2006. I hadn't seen Dan for many years. My thoughts and prayers are with you Keith and the Hanson family.

Glenn and Nancy Tucker

September 30, 2009

Dan's character, personality and graciousness were as deep as the granite chasm on Mount Desert Island, Maine, that's still known to his friends and an entire new generation as "Hanson's Hole." My life is richer for having known him, and his passing leaves a void that can't be filled. What a kind, loving, bright, engaging man he was! Our sympathy lies with Keith, Suzanne and all who had the good fortune to know him.

Beth Chapman

September 30, 2009

I went to law school with Dan at USD.
He was a delightful and pleasant person. My sincere sympathy to his partner Keith and to all Dan's friends and family.

Bob Brink

September 29, 2009

My deepest sympathy, prayers and thoughts to Keith, Suzanne and family. Forty some years ago, I was coming out of a college dormitory on a early September day. A guy next to me, turned and said "Hi, my name is Dan Hanson". Little did I know, I would room, study, play, travel and work with Dan in the coming months. Dan took several of us to work in Maine on Mt. Desert Island at the Jordan Pond House in the middle of Acadia National Park The people, experiences and memories from those two summers are extraordinary. I couldn't thank Dan enough for talking me into going along. I hadn't seen or spoken to Dan for some time until the Jordan Pond reunion, several years ago. Our friendship and great times came back in our tears. Dan's generosity, humor, loyalty, kindness and intelligence touched me as it did for so many in numerous ways. We'll miss you, Dan.

September 28, 2009

Dear Keith,
The guest book entries say more than we ever could! Dan was an exceptional man who was kind to all and we know how devoted you both were to each other. We have lost a very special family member. Our thoughts and prayers are with you every day.
Love,
Lenny and Sharon

Cheryl Smyth

September 28, 2009

To Keith and all of Dan's family. I am very sorry to hear of Dan's passing and send you my heartfelt condolences.

In the summer of 1967, I worked with Dan at the Jordon Pond House in Acadia National Park in Maine. I would like to share a memory I have of Dan from this time. Dan, Winston Charles, Chrystal Piper and myself all had the same day off. We decided it would be a great adventure to climb Mt. Katahdin, the beginning of the Appalachian Trail. I do not know how we ever managed to do this in one day, but we made it to Baxter State Park and began our climb. It threatened to rain all day but we forged ahead and made it above the tree line. It was steep in places and we sometimes had to hold onto the boulders in our path to keep our balance. The clouds continued to get darker and darker. Dan was the first to mention that he was getting shocks from the rocks. And, as time went on, the rest of us noticed the same thing. At one point, Chrystal and I roared with laughter at Winston's and Dan's hair standing on end. And guess what, so was ours! Obviously, none of us were science majors. When it started to rain, we took shelter under a very narrow overhang. After some thoughtful consideration (and acknowleging that we were soaking wet), we decided to head down the mountain. We never did make it to the top of Mt. Katahdin; but we did live to tell the story of how we almost got struck by lightening. The end. That memory will stay with me forever. I am glad to have known Dan. Cheryl (Sherry) Conley-Smyth

Mary and Carolyn Erickson-DeLaquil

September 28, 2009

To Keith and the rest of Dan's family our heartfelt condolences.

We will miss Dan sorely. A truly wonderful guy.

Bob Neufeld

September 28, 2009

Dan, three other fellows and I were roommates in a house we rented during Dan's senior year at law school. I remember his mom and dad coming to visit with the great dane that would climb up into Dan's lap on our shabby couch. Dan loved it. His many friends from that far back are saddened by his passing, and our prayers and support go out to Keith and those who have been closest to him since then.

Michael Schech

September 27, 2009

My most heart felt condolences to Keith and to all of Dan's extended family. Dan's warmth, intelligence, and deep concern for the wellbeing of his fellow humans was much appreciated. He will be greatly missed. Thankfully you are still with us Keith, and I will cherish your friendship forever. Monet's garden will always be a very special place for me because of the two of you.

Hugs,
Mike

Dave Rasche

September 26, 2009

Although I knew Dan for far too short a time, his passing has deeply saddened me. My sincere sympathy to Keith and the entire family.

Bion

September 25, 2009

Vicki and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Dan's death. We much enjoyed our friendship with Dan and Keith, and I appreciate knowing Dan for 19 years as a friend and colleague at Thomson/Reuters (West Publishing). Deepest sympathy to Keith and to Dan's family. Bion & Vicki

Henry Herrmann

September 24, 2009

Jerry and I join the multitudes who will miss Dan. His generosity and gentle kindness is irreplaceable. He would virtually give you the shirt off his back.

Hank & Jerry

Dick Hewetson

September 24, 2009

I am so sad that Dan left us so early in life. Keith and Dan have always been good friends to David Irwin and me. They have carried on our legacy at Quatrefoil Library to an extent that is hard to believe.
And Dan has left his own legacy in so many ways.
My deepest sympathy to Keith and the whole family.

Bob Hand

September 24, 2009

Keith,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I hope you can find some comfort in the knowledge that you were a great & loving partner, best friend and devoted soul mate for Dan.
Sincerely,
Bob

troy randolph

September 24, 2009

dear keith and all of dans family
i got to know dan about 4 years ago when he hired me to install a fence for the condo association where he lived from what i know of dan he was a very kind smart man and he loved where he lived and loved keith very much my sympathy goes to keith and dans family dan will be missed by all troy randolph farmington mn

Janet Stephens Rhind

September 23, 2009

Dear Sue, I was sorry to hear of the death of your brother, Dan. May you and all of your family be surrounded with the love of supportive friends at this time. And may Dan's partner, Keith, be comforted with warm memories and the love of your family as well as other friends. May God's grace and peace be with all of you.

George Ferrell

September 23, 2009

I have known of Dan for almost 40 years, but only met him for the first time a few years ago. There is a small outcropping of rock on the coast of Maine which many of us who have a connection to that special place know as being informally and forever anointed with his name. It is a special gift to live a life making connections with those we do not know, whether it is as Dan has done in his community in St. Paul, or on that cliff in Maine. So there was joy when my partner and I were able to finally meet him and his partner, and sorrow now at his passing. For our acquaintance was long, and lasting, and all too brief. Our deepest sympathies to Keith and all of Dan’s family. George Ferrell & Rick Plewa

Henry Bromelkamp

September 23, 2009

Dan's intelligence and justice and warmth and good humor always filled the room when we had the good luck to see him. Jeff and I appreciate many years of hospitality and friendship. Keith, we know you carry his spirit with you, and we send you our love and peace. Henry Bromelkamp and Jeff Nelson

Laurie Jensen

September 22, 2009

Oh, we are so saddened by Dan's passing. Know that our thoughts are with you all. We have a newfound fondness for the leather chair that graces our living room.
Steve and Tim always kept us up-to-date on the two of you!
Our sympathies,
Laurie Jensen and Carol Jean Peterson

Nancy Rideout

September 22, 2009

Dear Keith, Suzanne and family,
I will always cherish wonderful memories of Dan when we worked at the Jordan Pond House more than 40 years ago. I am so glad that we were able to occasionally get together and reminisce. It was always a time to share laughter and stories. We have all lost an intelligent, sensitive and caring man. My thoughts are with you.

Andrew Grayot

September 22, 2009

I was surprised and saddened to hear of Dan's passing. I am glad to have met Dan and Keith as some of the kindest people I've met in St Paul - some of the kindest people anywhere, really. I cherish a happy picture in mind of enjoying an intelligent, witty conversation and a glass of wine on the back porch on a June afternoon with Dan, Keith, Tyler, and Brian.

Michael Martinez

September 22, 2009

Keith- when I read all of the memories of Dan, I am grateful that you shared him with us all of these years. You're beautiful! Hugs, Mike

Brad Rystedt

September 22, 2009

Keith, It has been a blessing to have your friendship, love and support through all of these years. You both have always been thought of with the highest regards by Tom (and myself.) The day the two of you graced us with your friendship, was a gift to the two of us. I still admire the way you cut our commitment cake. Dan, may you find peace and serenity and Keith, know that we are always there for you. A true gift. What a beautiful time to celebrate Dan's life. We love you, Brad Rystedt and Tom Burger

Steve King

September 22, 2009

We miss you Dan and are so grateful to have you in ours life's for over twenty years. We always looked forward to our time together as a foursome, shared meals, trip to Florida and mostly our time at the cabin. The conversation was always interesting, fun and enlightening. Walks, exploring the area,sharing books, boating and board games. Dan and Keith have been wonderful and true friends, We will miss you Dan. Love, Tim Piepkorn and Steve King

Sharon Baker

September 22, 2009

Dear Keith,
I am so saddened by Dan's passing. He was definitely someone that made the world a better place! It was a joy to see him every workday at Caribou, and I was so happy to see him again thanks to Quatrefoil Library. I will miss his gentle wit and great smile. Much love to you and your families.

Kathleen Ditmanson Adams

September 22, 2009

Dear Keith and all of Dan’s family,
I was absolutely stunned when I heard of Dan's death. Dan was a delight to spend time with, a kind spirit with his inevitable smile, magnificent sense of humor and relentless positive attitude.
Keith, take care and know you are loved.

Tyler Thoms

September 22, 2009

I will miss you Dan... You were my "dad" and you will always be remembered. Few people will ever touch my life in the way you did. Thank you for opening my mind up to new ways of viewing the world. I'll never forget it!

Tom Burger

September 22, 2009

Keith, it has been so rewarding to have you and Dan in my life for the past 28 years. What fun we have shared and the many memories to keep for a lifetime. Dan will be deeply missed by Brad and I.

Sara Schulz

September 22, 2009

My deepest sympathy to Keith, and to Dan's family. It was my privilege to get to know Dan over the years at Thomson Reuters through our shared passion of diversity. Dan was a true friend and leader. Dan will be greatly missed, and never forgotten.

Sincerely,

September 22, 2009

My sympathies to Keith and the rest of Dan's family and friends.
I had the privilege of meeting Dan when I worked briefly in the same area with him at Thomson Reuters. He was always a true gentleman: kind, thoughtful and always had a smile and a friendly greeting to all.
He was a fine man and will be deeply missed.
~Joan Workman, Eagan, MN

Winston Charles

September 22, 2009

Dan was among a wonderful group of college students working at the Jordan Pond House, Mt . Desert Island, Maine. His friendship during that brief time stuck with me through the years, even though we only renewed our contact a few weeks ago. Perhaps, however, the lasting impression indicates Dan's special character. My deep condolences are extended to Keith and to Dan's family. I know how much he will be missed and treasured.

Steve Setzler

September 22, 2009

Keith, you are in my thoughts and prayers.My best wishes go out to you and your family and friends. Setz

Monica Dotterweich

September 21, 2009

There are those that come into your life and touch it in an amazing way, regardless of the lenght of time you knew them. Dan was one of those people. Thank you.

Ron Zweber

September 21, 2009

Dear Keith, I was very saddened to hear the news of Dan's passing. What a great loss to you and to all who knew him. My sympahty to you and to the rest of your family.

Beth Anderson

September 21, 2009

Dan and I began work together at Thomson/ Reuters/West in February of 1990. That first day, he was such a gentleman and that continued through 20 years of knowing him. Keith, you are a treasure and I am thinking of you. To Keith and Dan's family, he was a kind, gentle soul which I will miss professionally and personally.

Mitch Marks

September 21, 2009

Keith, I am saddened to hear of Dan's passing. I really enjoyed working with the two of you at Quatrefoil Libary.

Michael Martinez

September 21, 2009

This is a sad loss for those who knew and loved Dan. His persistent positive attitude, generous hospitality, personal authenticity, and genuine friendship will be missed. I am grateful for our time together, and honored to have been blessed with such a wonderful friend and role model.

September 21, 2009

Dear Keith, your and Dan's family, Brenda and I send our most sincere condolences for your and our loss of Dan. He truly was a friend in every sense of the word. Both Dan and Keith were absolute rocks for me in my journey through life at Allstate. My life was enriched for having known him. We send you all our best wishes of strength and hold on to your memories. MaryAnn Watters and Brenda Pflaum

Jill Spencer

September 21, 2009

Dan, You will be forever young on the tea lawn at JPH, on the rocks at Hunter's Beach, and gazing out to sea at Hanson's Hole. My deepest sympathies to Keith and all of Dan's family.

September 21, 2009

Dear Keith and all of Dan's family, I cannot convey my sadness upon hearing of Dan's death. He was a wonderful man and friend. I will miss him. Carolyn Maier, St. Paul

September 21, 2009

Dear Keith and all of Dan's family, I cannot find the words to convey my sadness at the news of Dan's death. He was a wonderful man and friend and I will miss him. Carolyn Maier

Jon Olson

September 21, 2009

Ryan and I always had Dan and Keith to look up to. All who were close to him will be missing him. My thoughts go to Keith and Dan's family.

Barb Geisman / Jackie Turk

September 21, 2009

Our deepest sympathies to Keith and the rest of Dan's family. Dan was a wonderful man and a delight to be around. We are so sad to hear of his passing.

Laura Warnest

September 21, 2009

I am deeply saddened to hear of Dan's passing. He was a great friend and mentor. I miss him. My thoughts and love to Keith. Take care and know that you are loved.

Julie Anderson

September 21, 2009

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Erin Lindquist

September 21, 2009

My sincerest condolences to Keith and the rest of Dan's family - I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Dan on a few projects at Thomson and allows found him a delight to work with. He will be missed.

Ryan Hogan

September 21, 2009

You left us too early Dan. You will be missed. Thanks for being a role model for Jon and I and so many others.

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