Ronald Hansen

Ronald Kenneth Hansen passed away peacefully at home on July 16, 2023. He was born on October 20, 1930. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Shirley (married 67 years), and his sister, Marlene. He was the loving father of Rick (Mitchelle), Re'Lynn (Doreen), and John (Julie); devoted grandfather to Brian (MacKenzie), Stephen (Camy) and Hailee (Grant); great grandfather to Boden; and uncle, family, and friend to many in the United States and Norway.

He and his wife, Shirley, founded Hansen Realty and The Chicago Real Estate Institute for licensing agents. Ron simply believed in helping others. He served as an MP in Germany during the Korean War. He volunteered with Wrightwood Neighbors and Taste of Lincoln Avenue. He spearheaded many drives for funds, clothing, food, and shelter. He rarely missed a firepit gathering in his Chicago neighborhood of The Villa. A voracious learner, he was taking Norwegian lessons beyond the age of 90.

He spent summers in Lakeside, Michigan where he fed the pond catfish and harvested a bountiful garden (countless tomatoes and radishes) with the extensive help of family and friends. He was a great storyteller, often recounting his trip down the Mississippi by raft. He loved good conversation, good food, and the olives from his wife's martinis.

He proudly wore his Viking hat at Halloween and beyond. Illinois drivers knew him from his "Odin" license plate. He loved playing the horn, especially the two songs he knew well- Happy Birthday and When The Saints Go Marching In.

Donations in memory of Ron can be sent to The Jesse White Foundation,

https://www.thejessewhitefoundation.org/

A celebration of Ron's life will be held on Saturday, September 16, at 11:30, at Minnekirken, Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church, 2614 N. Kedzie Blvd., Chicago, 60647. Luncheon to follow.