Tim Hanson MATTHEWS - Tim Hanson of Matthews passed away on September 29, 2016. He was born in Akron, OH in 1953 to Marian and John Hanson. After graduating from Kent State, Tim traveled as an archaeologist to work digs in Cyprus, Utah, and Morocco. He left archeology to become a Branch Manager for Dieco. While proud of all he pursued, Tim's true work passion was found when he began to teach at CPCC. He thrived on seeing his students succeed; many of Tim's visitors in his final days were former students. Tim is survived by his wife, Sandy, and children, Joel and Camille. A service will be held on Sunday, October 2, at 4:00pm at Morningstar Lutheran Chapel, 12900 Idlewild Road in Matthews. The family will receive guests after the service. Plants for a memorial garden are welcome, as are donations to the Charlotte Humane Society. Online condolences may be made at www.bostonsmortuary.com.

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Published by Charlotte Observer on Oct. 1, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Tim Hanson

Sponsored by Joel Douglas Hanson and Family.

34 Entries

Jim "Dimitri" Kagafas

September 29, 2021

Seriously, five years today? You have not been forgotten, Tim, and never will be. Still miss you as much, good friend.

Sandy

September 25, 2020

It’s hard to believe it’s been four years. As I putter around the house, my eyes land on all the memories; that’s Dimitri’s wedding gift, those are “special” rocks, those pictures came from my birthday trip to New Orleans on Amtrak, that’s the garden I created in his honor, that was his favorite picture of Joel and Camille, those are the plants that came from his childhood home in Akron, that’s a drink stirrer from our honeymoon, that’s the chair where he always sat at the kitchen table, that’s where the piano with thumbtacks used to sit. In the midst of the chaos thrown our way, you were always the love of my life.

Joel and Dimitri after a "few" Oozos.

Dimitri Kagafas

March 14, 2017

It was the winter of 1977 during a meeting at Kent State University that I met Tim Hanson. Little did I know that it was the beginning of a lifelong friendship, a friendship different from any other. The meeting was for five fortunate students who had been selected to participate in an archaeological excavation in Episkopi, Cyprus for the coming summer. We would end up spending two seasons on the dig (1977 and 1978). Tim and I bonded immediately over the prospect of fulfilling lifelong dreams of working in an ancient environment with a classical setting. The excavation involved surveying and excavating Neolithic sites in and around Episkopi. These ancient Greek settlements included tombs that also would be excavated. The season lasted from June to September. Needless to say, the experience was one of a lifetime. We met people from all over the world that summer, learned much about ancient and modern Greek culture, and made lasting friendships.
After the second season Tim and I went our separate ways, but we stayed in touch throughout the years sharing information about our marriages, children, and careers. I stayed in Ohio and Tim settled in North Carolina. We saw each other only twice during the next 35 plus years, yet I counted him as one of my best friends. In the beginning, we wrote each other and later our letters turned into emails and then texting. Toward the end of Tim's life, we talked via cell about our lives, our accomplishments and failures, our families, how important our children were to us, and sadly, the end of life. Tim shared with me his feelings about the end of his life that he knew was coming quickly. Throughout the last two months he spoke stoically about this life and how he wanted me to remember him. I shared a picture of the two of us as young men soaking up the Aegean sun from those early years, and I commented on his wonderful grinning smile and told him that it was how I would remember him. His reply was that that image would last longer than his mortal visage ever would.
I have never known a more intelligent man than Tim. He was truly a Renaissance man. His interests were wide and varied. He could discuss any subject at any given time leaving people with the impression that he was an expert on the topic at hand. I remember when we first arrived in Cyprus, I wasn't sold on Tim's self-describe talents. One night we all were discussing languages and Tim said he spoke fluent French. Another evening the group was discussing music and Tim announced he could play jazz piano. And so on. I thought him a bit full of it until one day he and I were travelling for supplies and picked up a young married couple who were hitchhiking across Greece and Cyprus. When they got into the Land Rover, they began to speak only French and Joel jumped right in, carrying on a conversation I could only listen to but not understand. Another time the gang went to a nightclub in a neighboring town for some down time and during the band's break, the members invited any patron who wanted to entertain to help himself to the stage. Tim walked up to the piano and began to play, without music, jazz equal to any professional. After moments like this, I realized Tim was for real. He wasn't a braggart, though. He just knew his worth. He became a leader that first summer. If a problem arose, Tim would figure it out. He led surveying groups, reported findings at the end of the day, and became a confidant to the head of the local museum. He was such a brilliant guy.
But what I remember just as much was Tim's humor. His timing was exquisite. He had a vocabulary unmatched and his wit was one of a kind. He used metaphors with the best of them, could quote the ancients, and referenced literature and poetry, and was a master of the one-liner. Tim was tan, lean, and wiry, and the women loved him, too. I guess I was a bit jealous at times, but this never stopped me from valuing our friendship.
Tim and I spent a second summer in Cyprus and relished the fact that we were experiencing something most guys our age could only dream about. We never, never forgot those two summers, and we would often reference them when writing or talking, and always with a laugh.
Tim loved his family, and he spoke of it often during our communications. He was proud of his daughter Camille and son Joel, and during the early years especially, he and Sandy were unmatched in their admiration for one another. He and I shared the problems marriage and fatherhood bring, and I could never have asked for a better listener than Tim. I assumed we would be there for each other for a very long time to come. But this wasn't to be. Tim was taken much too early. For the last several years of his life, he suffered severe pain and yet when I did finally see him (ironically one year before his final diagnosis), he sat across from me being as funny as ever, even though he knew something terrible was wrong. I will always cherish that afternoon I shared with my friend. It was a sad goodbye, but I didn't know exactly why at the time. Sadly, I didn't see Tim before he passed away, but I don't think he wanted me to. I think he wanted me to remember him as he was in that picture from long ago. Funny, brilliant, proud, friend that he was. I never met another like him. God, how I miss you, Tim.

Jim Kagafas aka Dimitri

Lauren Adams

November 14, 2016

When I think of Tim, I immediately go back to the carefree years of high school and the always so welcoming Hanson household. With all of the chaos I'm sure we brought he was always so welcoming and inviting, and boy did he make sure we always had wonderful goodies to munch and eat on. His love for others was so apparent, bold, and admired.

-"Why do all of the best people die?"
-"Because when you are in a garden which flowers do you pick?"
-"The most beautiful ones."

Dawn Keever

October 27, 2016

Sandy and Camille, while I didn't know Tim, I prayed for him an awful lot! I know you had been grieving for some time prior to his passing certain losses but saying good bye, well, I can only imagine. While there are times for sorrow there will also be times for great joy and gratitude. May God keep you and reveal His heart is for you during this time.

William C. Sykes

October 26, 2016

Even though many of us in this room are strangers to each other we were not strangers to Tim. Tim was never a stranger to anyone he met no matter where or when. There is one thing I know about all of you gathered here today. I know that you have never met a bigger man than Tim. He wasn't so very big in physical stature, but he was a GIANT in so many other ways. He was a man of giant vision. He was a man of giant intellect. He was a man of giant ideas and passion and ability.
I'll never forget the day I met him for the first time. It was in his class at CPCC. That day and every other day he was leading (not teaching) us how to bounce back from the devastations of a job loss. All of us and especially me took comfort and strength in his words. Words that would prove to bring us all back from the edge of collapse. That is and was the way Tim made you feel. He had the unique ability to help you feel good about yourself even in times of despiration. There was something about Tim that was irresistible. His charisma.
Over the years we became friends but always he was the teacher and I the student. He taught me how to be passionate in the work I did. He taught me that failure is never final but
is an avenue for learning. He taught me the importance of thinking outside the box and to never accept preconceived ideas as unchangeable. He taught me, through example.
Tim had his own set of commandments he lived by
•Eliminate from your vocabulary the word maybe' say a solid yes' or no.'
•Give yourself an end time for accomplishment of any project or solving any problem.
•Open your heart. Allow instinct to work in conjunction with your intellect.
•Take a deep breath. Problems can overwhelm us. Stay calm. Don't get uptight.

Was Tim a little eccentric? Absolutely.
Was he colorful? Without doubt.
Did he exude confidence and inspire vision? No one can question it. He was truly a great man.
He made me, in so many ways, the man I am. I am part of that legacy and, for as long as I live, he will have a place in my heart. In everyone he taught, in everyone he touched, in the strength of character he displayed, He has found an everlasting legacy.

Millie Snyder

October 19, 2016

Prayers for you Sandy, Joel and Camille. Tim was a gift in so many ways. May you have peace.

Monica Hagerman

October 17, 2016

The Hansons house is were you could find me on any weekend throughout middle school. Tim was always so kind and understanding with all the shananagins Camille and I would get into. He always had a smile on his face and wise words to give us. Tim and the family will always be in my heart as some of my first real family friends in Charlotte.

Madison Kaiser

October 17, 2016

Camille and I became best friends in high school and I frequently spent weekends over at the Hanson's house. Back when I first met Tim, I recall most his passion for cooking as well as his genuine interest in others. There would always be a large, heaping pot of some kind of stew (spicy, of course) cooking on the stove top and a jolly, cheerful man not too far from it. Tim had a way of making people feel special by always asking questions and letting his curiousity about life pour out. From a man who has been to and seen so many wonderful places and things in this world, he sure knew how to be content and so lively and vivacious and present where ever he was. This made him truely irresistible to spend time with. He will be missed, dearly, and always remembered and cherished in my heart.

Brian Holland

October 17, 2016

I knew Tim for about 12 years through his son Joel. I can remember going on a camping trip with Tim and him teaching me how to whittle wood and gave me a pocket knife that I still have to this day. I will also remember Tims awesome cooking which he himself had a passion for. Whenever I would have sleepovers at the Hanson house, I can always picture walking downstairs and Tim would be at the kitchen table reading the paper. He was definitely one of the most pleasant and easy-going friendly people I have ever met in my life. Tim will be missed greatly.

Barbara Guthrie

October 16, 2016

Loved his cooking, enjoyed many great meals he cooked at church! Great Guy, I remember the year he went with me to take the youth group to Retreat, lots of fun. So proud of Joel and Camille and Sandy was the love of his life. He will be missed!

Reggie Talbert

October 16, 2016

I met Tim at a very low period of my life. I became unemployed during the recession of 2008 and was desperately seeking how to re-enter. Tim taught a class through CPCC that gave us ideas, strategies, solid information with high doses of hope and encouragement. Those sessions were a welcome respite each week at a very depressing time in my life. I am now gainfully employed in a new career that was suggested to the class by Tim as an opportunity we might want to consider. Tim's commitment to helping others through his willingness to offer his time and commitment to those that were going through a very difficult time is something that I will be forever grateful.

Jon Crane

October 11, 2016

If you came into Tim's orbit, it did not take long to recognize he was gifted with a generous, open spirit leavened with the welcome ability to find the world absurdly funny on even the darkest days. I loved bantering with Tim. Even in his last hours, Tim's vagabond wit burned bright. After one of our final goodbyes, I got a text thanking my wife and I for paying him a call. Along with the unnecessary thanks, Tim wanted to know if we were ready to place our Amway order as time might be short. We needed to buy now. Thank you Tim for the laughs and the soap.

Laura Bazan

October 7, 2016

There are so many wonderful stories to tell about Tim. One of my favorite things he used to do whenever one of his friends received some recognition in the newspaper or in a newsletter was to spoof the story with his own version. I remember one time when Frank got a promotion at Little and Associates, Tim took license with the newspaper article and punned the entire article with references to Germany and hot dogs. Hilarious. He found irreverence and humor in everything. He always made me laugh. He could go from irreverence to spirituality in a nano second. Both were a part of him. He was then and always will be a part of us. Once in a while I hear his booming laughter in the back of my memory and I know that he is lounging there...just beyond the horizon...waiting for us.

Barbara Crane

October 6, 2016

Tim introduced me to the term "contemporary artifacts" and I embraced it immediately. We both loved finding treasures wherever we found them--on the street, in dumpsters, in our pockets! He said it was this kid- like quality that made us fast friends. Camille and Joel, your dad gave me a few books from his childhood and while I love having them in my collection, should you decide you want them, they are yours.
I remember, too, that he gave me sound and kind advice during my job search when I found myself unemployed in my 50's. And let's not overlook the largest nugget of our friendship--Tim AND Sandy were primary advisors in my tattoo graphic selection. Love you both, love you all.

Dennis & Sheila Wallace

October 5, 2016

We first met the Hanson family in November 1998 when we moved in as neighbors. Fondest of memories throughout the years. One of the best was during our progressive dinners, when we would go house to house for a different course Tim would pull out his harmonica and brighten up the event. God Bless your family!!!!

Kyle Balder

October 5, 2016

I was never fortunate enough to truly meet Tim, but I've been very fortunate to have known both of his kids for about 7-8 years now. I can only imagine how amazing of a father, husband, friend, teacher and man he was based on how he raised his children. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with the Hanson family during this difficult time.

Rick Butor

October 5, 2016

Tim became my best friend, as he was my next door neighbor on Goodyear Blvd. in late 70's. I discovered so many magnificent talents and skills about one of the most unique people I've ever known. Because of Tim, I play the piano every day. His endless encouragement to live life, to discover all it's treasures. I will miss your witty prose, and Capt. Beerblood. God Bless Timmy, love you!

Sandy

October 5, 2016

Joel, Camille and I are so thankful for all your messages. In the years to come, we would also enjoy reading about the way you celebrated life with Tim. If you have such a story, please share it here.

October 5, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss. I hope Jer. 29: 11,12 brings you some comfort during this difficult time.

October 4, 2016

I went to East High with Tim. He was a good friend. God Bless

Cynthia Osborne

October 2, 2016

Sandy and Camille,
Deepest sympathy to you and your family. My granddaughter and I came to the church. Cars were there. Door locked. Sorry to miss giving you a hug, card.
May God comfort you in this stressful time.

Cynthia

JE Jackson

October 2, 2016

Mr. Hansons kind presence and sincere interest in his students will be missed . May the God of comfort and peace strengthen you during this difficult time.(2Cor.1:2-4).

Kathleen Lacher

October 2, 2016

My sorrow is great for the family and Tim. I have only known Tim for eight years but he was a kind and spiritual individual. He helped many find their way and accept changes in their lives. I look forward to seeing him again one day. For now, I am excepting he is part of my guardian angel team! He will facilitate all the assignments!

Linda (Lloyd) Davis

October 2, 2016

I was so sorry to learn of Tim's passing. I met Tim and Sandy at church, and always appreciated Tim's insights in our Sunday School class. He was a great guy and a unique individual. My prayers, sympathy, and love to Sandy, Camille, and Joel. God bless you and give you peace!

John Davis

October 1, 2016

Tim and I grew up in Goodyear Heights together and were inseparable as kids. I have countless fond memories of our years together and know he will be sorely missed by many. My heartfelt condolences to his family and those who cherished his friendship, mentoring and love.

Treasea Staubs/Heil

October 1, 2016

I went to school with Tim. He was a kind soul. I hated to hear of his passing! Love and prayers for his family.

John & Roma Hanson

October 1, 2016

With deepest condolences, and in sweet memory of a loving soul, our prayers are offered up in sympathy and with warm recollections.

Darlene ( Shuman) Davidian

October 1, 2016

I was so very sorry to hear of Tims passing. I remember going to homecoming with him at Western Reserve Academy when we were in junior high. So long ago but will always remember ! My deepest sympathy to his family and friends

Judy Baker

October 1, 2016

Deepest sympathy to the Hanson Family. Pain and suffering is now at a end and my hope is for a healing spirit to enter your life and only good memories remain.

James Kagafas

October 1, 2016

Tim and I met at Kent State right before we took off to Cyprus for an archaeological excavation. We became fast friends while there and remembered those beautiful lazy afternoons by the Mediterranean always. Tim was the Renaissance man. He was a leader and could tackle any problem with sheer ingenuity. He spoke French, played jazz piano, and could quote with the best of them. A good man left us too soon. I will miss our 40-year friendship and especially our continued correspondence. See you again someday, Tim.
Peace and love,
Dimitri

Diane Muldoon

October 1, 2016

Sorry for the sadness and pain. Sorry for the grief path the family is on. Glory for the memories, including your picture that makes us laugh out loud right now. xxoo

Debbie Egert

October 1, 2016

I am so sorry to hear of Tim's passing. I was fortunate enough to first meet Tim at CPCC. Was always a fun guy to be around. Our prayers are with his family.

October 1, 2016

Tim will be missed.

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