Melvin L. Hansen

RACINE - Melvin “Mel” L. Hansen, 87, passed away on Friday, December 28, 2012 at Wisconsin Veterans Home in Union Grove. Mel was born in Racine on December 31, 1924 the son of the late John and Ruth (nee: Chambers) Hansen. Prior to his graduating from Racine Park High School in 1943, Mel was drafted in the United States Army. Since this left him unable to receive his diploma, his cousin had the responsibility of receiving it on his behalf. Mel entered the service on June 7, 1943, specializing as a radio operator for firing control of heavy artillery. He received the Theater Service Medal, Philippine Liberations Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and the American Theater Service Medal. Mel battled in New Guinea, Solomon Islands and the Philippines, and was honorably discharged on February 14, 1946. He was united in marriage to Mary J. Mullikin in Racine on January 28, 1950. Mel was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, V.F.W. Post 1391, Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 4 and Firefighters Local 321. Mel’s professional career spanned from his employment as a bricklayer in the spring of 1946 and in addition he joined the Racine Fire Dept. on June 20, 1949, concluding with his retirement as Assistant Chief on December 31, 1989. Mel lived a very unpretentious life, appreciated true family values, and was proud of the fact that each of his children received a college education. He found great enjoyment in holiday gatherings, family vacations, visiting with family and friends and spending time with his sons hunting and enjoying the great outdoors. Mel is survived by his children; Susan (Paul) Kristopeit of Beloit, Robert and Jean (nee: Baugrud) Hansen, of Union Grove, William and Karen (nee: Maahs) Hansen of Pewaukee and Richard Hansen of Bartlett, IL, eight grandchildren and one sister, Shirley James. He was preceded in death by his son Christopher Hansen in 1954, his wife Mary J. in 1994, one brother, Donald Hansen, and sisters; Lois Engstrom and Arlene Overman. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. Mel’s funeral service will be held at Sturino Funeral Home on Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 11 a.m. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until service time at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest next to his wife at Graceland Cemetery, concluding with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Mel in a special way may direct memorials to Trinity United Methodist Church, 3825 Erie St. Racine, WI 53402. Mel’s family would like to extend a very special thank you to the Veterans Home in Union Grove, especially Boland Hall staff on 1-E and Vitas Hospice for their beautiful care given to our dad, grandfather and friend. Sturino Funeral Home 3014 Northwestern Ave. Racine, WI 53404 (262) 632-4479 www.sturinofuneralhome.com