Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
William Hansen Obituary
September 11, 1928 - June 16, 2025
Fresno, California - William Albert (Bill) Hansen, a beloved figure in Fresno, passed away peacefully at his home on June 16, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on September 11, 1928, Bill was the cherished son of Hazel and Albert Hansen. A proud alumnus of Fresno High School, Bill was celebrated for his athletic prowess, earning accolades as the most outstanding athlete in both baseball and football.
His passion for baseball continued at Fresno State, where he played under the esteemed coach Pete Beiden and later served as his assistant. Drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals, Bill's notable career included a memorable period with the Cardinals' farm team in Fresno. During the Korean Conflict, his exceptional baseball skills kept him stateside as part of the Army's baseball team, playing alongside major leaguers.
Bill's contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Fresno State Baseball Hall of Fame in 2001 and the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame.
Beyond sports, Bill dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher, principal, and district-level administrator for Fresno Unified School District. He retired as Assistant Superintendent, having also served as Acting Superintendent on two occasions.
Bill's commitment to fitness was unwavering, as he continued to work out, play golf, and enjoy 8-mile-long daily bike rides well into his 90s.
Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Carol Gaab Hansen, his son Robert Hansen and wife Kim, daughter Linda Hansen, and grandchildren Nicholas Braden (wife Tamara), Kendra Hansen (husband Mike Vaughan-Cherubin), and Eric Hansen (wife Trish). He was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Sharpe.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Dennis Nakata, Dr. David Carey, and Dr. Dominic Dizon for their compassionate care.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 11:00 am at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720. Bill's legacy will be cherished by all who knew him.
Donations may be made through "The Bulldog Foundation" to support Student - Athlete Scholarships. Make checks payable to "The Bulldog Foundation", P.O. Box 26267, Fresno, CA 93729-6267. Include "Bill Hansen" on the memo line.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Hansen
4 Entries
Tim Harris
August 17, 2025
Bill was a honorable, humble, enjoyable man. The friendship was a gift that I will long remember.
May he rest in peace.
Nick and Susie Sanders
June 29, 2025
While we did not know Bill we are church friends of Carole's. She always spoke highly of him and loved relating antidotes of his comings and goings. We are so sorry for her loss and Carol please know that you are in our thoughts a prayers.
Nick and Susie Sanders
Vernon Peters
June 28, 2025
In today´s world, Bill Hansen would be called "an influencer." Sixty-eight years ago I would call him my sixth grade teacher and coach at Fremont Elementary. He was disciplined, fair and inspirational. I had several years prior watched him play first base for the Fresno Cardinals, and admired his ability and competitive spirit. I don´t recall any interaction with him in the years since I graduated 6th grade as I´ve been gone from Fresno for nearly 60 years. But his presence in my life during my formative years most definitely imbued key values that have influenced my life. Thank you, Bill Hansen.
Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Chapel
June 25, 2025
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in William Hansen's name
Memorial Events
for William Hansen
Funeral services provided by:
Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720
How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor William Hansen's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
