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Robert D. "Bob" Hanson Jr.
Robert D. "Bob" Hanson Jr.
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Anna Mae Vagle
January 13, 2004
It has now been over three weeks since our Dear Bob left this home. All of the musicians here at St. Joan of Arc were keenly aware of his absence this past Sunday as family masses began again. Personally, my Christmas season became one of the most powerful I have ever experienced and the most peaceful. Bob's untimely death helped me look at my own family and friends with far deeper appreciation..putting into perspective all of life's comings and goings. This was only an extension of what Bob brought to his relationships every day...always a sense of what was really important and a great sense of well being and humor. He continues to bless our lives! Mary, I love to see your kids putting away the old mic stands and chords as they did with their father's assistance every Sunday! It is a big help to all of us as we deal with this great loss in our personal and musical lives. We love you and will be here for you. We love you Bob!
David Zellmer
January 11, 2004
I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Bob's death in by email from an old mutual friend when I returned home from Christmas travels. My boyhood friendship with Bob was, quite simply, one of the greatest things that ever happened to me. I got to know Bob when diabetes first struck him while we were in 7th grade and I volunteered to carry his schoolwork to him as he recuperated at home. Yet he never held that against me! His misfortune became my good fortune as we became good friends and I got to know his wonderful, energetic, and loving family as well.
Bob adjusted to his new illness in way you will recognize as typical of him; it was a physical nuisance -- a life-threatening nuisance to be sure -- but nothing to dampen his good-spirited enjoyment of life. It was my good luck to share in Bob's humorous yet earnest openhearted approach to life while making music in choir and orchestra, acting in school plays, and just "goofin'" at his home and in the neighborhood. (Our "recording sessions" for the fictious radio station WERD is one of my fondest memories.) While Bob and I contributed to each other's offbeat sense of humor, I have no doubt that this once shy, aloof kid got the better part of the bargain in our friendship. Thanks Bob for letting me into your life.
Meeting up again with Bob a few years ago -- and meeting his beautiful family -- I was struck by what a wonderful person he was and reconfirmed how very fortunate I had been to have met and become friends with him back in our school days. My desire to settle in the Twin Cities area when my wife and I leave Brussels has been motivated in part by the anticipation of renewing our friendship, which sadly, must now remain locked in memory. Yet I am gladdened to see that Bob's good spirit was so amply shared and appreciated by so many around him.
My heart and my thoughts go out to Mary and Isaac, Gabrielle, and Noah. I cannot imagine the depth of your sorrow at the loss of such a warmhearted husband and father. Take some comfort in knowing that he was one of the best. May his goodness live on in you.
Mike Donley
January 8, 2004
I was shocked to read of Bob's death in the Star Tribune this past week, when there was mention of a group of "Pump Boys" graduates singing at his memorial.
As a replacement for also-dearly-missed Steve Hollenhorst as LM in "Pump Boys," I had the delight of sitting behind Bob when he would dive into the opener "Highway 57", his guitar chopping with joy and energy; the same enthusiasm every night. He was a performer who brimmed with life, giving and receiving from the other actors with generosity and spontineity.
He was a good man, and I count it a joy having worked with him. I mourn with the rest of you, and offer his family my deepest sympathies.
Deborah Draheim
January 7, 2004
I just received the news and I am heart broken. I had such fun playing his "mousey" wife in "The Spitfire Grill." I can not imagine the world without him. My deepest sympathy.
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Jon Hegge
January 7, 2004
Having just returned from Holiday travels, I only found out about Bob's untimely death today. I am crushed at his passing and at missing the oppurtunity to celebrate his splendid life. I had the great honor to have shared the stage with Bob in "Pump Boys and Dinnettes" and will always remember the joy he brought to the stage and his love of life. I was thrilled to see him on stage last year in "SpitFire Grill" and had a nice chat with him afterward. I can only beleive that God has a new role for him that's even more important than the one he played here on earth. To Mary and the kids I send my thoughts and prayers for your tremendous loss.
Suzanne Durkacs
January 6, 2004
Oh, Hanson! I’ll miss working and chatting with you. Bob and I worked together at ADCS. We would swap stories about kids since we both had seven-year-old sons. When I first started working at the U three years ago, I knew right away that Bob was no ordinary helpline consultant. Especially when he was answering calls. In a single glance you knew Bob was on duty because Bob would be standing and pacing and taking as many steps as the headset would let him. I came to know Bob’s image very well. He was the “star” of a video our department put together to introduce in-coming freshman to the computer services at the U. As each of the 15 or so computer monitors would flicker Bob’s image, I couldn’t help but feel his enthusiasm as his image appeared over and over again during those three hour sessions. When it was my turn to speak to the new students, I would first ask them what they thought of Bob, our department’s “official, unofficial spokesman.” I also mentioned that when they called the helpline, they might even get to talk to Bob! I don’t think they could appreciate, nor could I at the time, how lucky they were when the called our helpline and got to talk with Bob. He had a great sense of humor, and he was a pleasure to work with, and I miss him. My heart goes out to his family for their tremendous loss.
Anne Tubbs Prestamo
January 4, 2004
I was stunned when I arrived home for a rare Christmas visit to learn that Bob had died. Attending his funeral was one of the most impressive events in my life. What a wonderful celebration and display of how deeply he had touched so many lives.
I left New Richmond to attend college out of state and had seen Bob only once or twice in 30 years. But my memories of junior and high school are very fresh in my mind.
Bob gave me a sense of humor. His quick wit and ability to see humor and irony in the most common, everyday events was a gift he gave to all around him. We played together in orchestra and jazz band, sang together in choir and madrigals, and worked on many theater productions together - he always onstage and me always backstage.
The music at the service was wonderful and I couldn't help but think that Bob was playing and singing along. I know that whenever I hear a tune from our high school days that I will think of Bob.
My deepest condolences to Bob's family. Please know that the thoughts and prayers of a multitude are with you.
Bruce Olson
January 2, 2004
Like most everyone else, I can't think of Bobby and not think of music. The two go hand in hand. The images I have are of him sitting at the piano when I would come over to play with Tim. He always had a smile on his face and a joke to tell.
May God rest his soul and be with is family.
The Spieler-Sandberg Family
December 31, 2003
Thank you Bob, for all the joy you have brought to our lives and the many hours you spent with Micah and Rose. You truly made an impact on all of our lives, that will never go away. We will miss you and send you much love. Thank you Bob.
Tim Hanson
December 29, 2003
I don't know what I can say that many have not already said except that I am grateful to God for blessing me with you, my big brother Bobby. I am grateful for the impact you have had on so many other people and the memories that will last a lifetime. I save my tears for my heroes and I have cried many for Garry and now for you. See you again soon.
Mia Morrisette
December 27, 2003
...And when he shall die
Take him and cut him out in little stars,
And he will make the face of heaven so fine
That all the world will be in love with night
And pay no worship to the garish sun.
-shakespeare
Tina Bohrer
December 26, 2003
I was shocked to learn of Bob's passing, and, like many other co-workers at ADCS, enjoyed his sense of humor and easy smile. Took one of his short courses and later had the honor of working with him. I feel as though I missed out, having known him for a short time and only in a small facet of his life. I wish his family and friends well. He touched many lives, many more than you know.
Laurie Mitchell (Stensvold)
December 24, 2003
I just had a chance this past summer to reconnect with cousin Bobby. We talked a great deal about his tech work at the university and his music at St. Joan's. I am thankful for that opporttunity. One of my favorite memories of Bobby was his role in UWRF's "1776" as the southern aristocrat. He was marvelous!
Annette Erickson
December 24, 2003
It was an honor to share with everyone, my brother Bobby. The Celebration on December 23, 2003 honoring Bobby's life was spectacular. The whole thing said "BOBBY". The music he loved and the place he loved doing it. I felt a real peace to provide a story to you all, of how his influence has affected each of his siblings. He gave me inspiration to get in front of "his" group and share with them what he was like growing up. He was truly an entertaining man from those "sparkly baby blues" to the crooning of "Mustang Sally"!! We love him and will MISS him.
Jeanine Carlson
December 23, 2003
Bobbie and I were cousins, classmates, fellow musicians, and dear friends. He, Mr. Cool, the ultimate performer who knew no fear, was a hero to his geeky, shy cousin. What a voice he had! No one sang "The Lord's Prayer" better. I will sorely miss accompanying him. I will miss even more the joy he brought to all he did. It was contagious.
Mary is my hero, too. She is an excellent page-turner, even at an outdoor wedding with a stiff, cold breeze. Thanks for the love and happiness you brought to my dear cousin. May God comfort you and fill you with His peace.
Karen & Jay Kuntz
December 23, 2003
When we decided to have a karaoke wedding reception, Bobby's talent was one of the main reasons why. He was incredible; his rendition of "Mustang Sally" was the most soulful we've ever heard. Bobby, you rocked our world!!! Guess God needed you to rock the next one.
Randy Meyer
December 23, 2003
Bob, Growing up as one of your neighbors, I still remember, and will never forget your guitar jam sessions you had in your garage. Do you think your mom still has any of those broken things that may have hit the floor after vibrating off the walls and shelves? And when you used to paint scary faces on your brothers, scars and all, for Halloween. Always enjoyed watching you sing in the bands years ago. You were truly blessed with a good voice along with your musical and theater talent. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your families in this difficult time. Thanks for all the other fun and goof-ball memories, for you will be missed by many.
Patty & Chuck DeVos (Chris's Parents)
December 23, 2003
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow.
Dana White
December 23, 2003
I extend my heartfelt sympathies to Bob's wife, children, family, friends, and fellow muscians. His life and light touched many and his joyful spirit and beautiful voice will be truly missed. I'm sure he is singing harmony and rocking with a heavenly choir. Blessings Bob, and thank you for sharing your gifts.
Betty Culver
December 23, 2003
"Lost love is still love, Eddie. It takes a different form, that's all. You can't see their smile or bring them food or tousle their hair or move them around a dance floor. But when those senses weaken, another heightens. Memory. Memory becomes your partner. You nurture it. You hold it. You dance with it.
"Life has to end," she said. "Love doesn't."
From "The Five People You Meet in Heaven," by Mitch Albom
David Culver
December 23, 2003
Bob Hanson went home to God to sing in Gabriel's choir. Rumor has it that the Choir of Angels needs tenors,too, and God went out looking for the best. Too bad for us in the SJA Choir that Bob was at the top of His short list.
Nancy Fouks Hokkanen
December 22, 2003
Cousin Bobby... Once one of the city boys who fled a cousins' cow-barn sleepover calling, "Auntie Lola! Auntie Lola!" He of the machine-gun laugh, the humorous shenanigans, the wit and wisdom. The soaring voice, melodious and far-ranging, and the ability to simultaneously play a guitar and other instruments. And wasn't he dancing, too? I remember a balmy Halloween two years ago when we crossed paths as we took our sons trick-or-treating... both kids dressed as Buzz Lightyear. And I remember a sweltering Sunday service, a group of musicians melting on the Apple River bank with Bob and sister Jeannie cranking out some folk tunes. "Pump Boys and Dinettes" at the Venetian Inn... Buying plants at Seward Montessori... the 'hood just won't the same. We miss you, Bob.
Sue Ellen O'Connell
December 22, 2003
Bob - He was part of a group of folks who spent halcyon days at UWRF: summer theatre, choir rehearsals and concerts, defiance of certain traditional expectations, but above all a love for laughter and shared comradery through music and theatre. We'll miss you Bob.
David and Sandie Van Wyk
December 22, 2003
We only knew Bob from his music at St. Joan's. We both loved to listen to him. He touched our lives as he did so many others he did not know. He had a smile that could light up a room. May you find some comfort from knowing how many people he made happy by his music.
Linda Draze
December 22, 2003
Bob and I worked together at Mn/DOT many years ago. We made lots of wacky videos together -- any time I was with Bob laughter was guaranteed. I am devastated by the loss. He had an outstanding spirit and was one of the most gracious men I've ever known. My love and prayers to Mary and the kids.
Kathy Stelter
December 22, 2003
I learned many lessons from Bob, about music, about life and about myself. One lesson was about a philosphy that came from a favorite Neil Young song, "Comes A Time." I've carried that with me for many years. He was right.
There will always be a place in my heart for Bob. May God be with all of the people who loved him during this difficult time.
Michael Reinbold
December 22, 2003
Bob Hanson was absolute joy to sing with in St. Joan's Choir and Advent Evensong performances. Supportive, thoughtful and equally as funny as he was kind, he could always be seen with an inviting cheerful smile. This man could rock the house with his legendary performances at St. Joan's Cabarets with covers of The Trogg's "Wild Thing" or The Who's "Pinball Wizard" while deeply touching your heart with Elton John's "Your Song." A truly unforgettable performance of the traditional "Coventry Carol" left Christmas mass attendants feeling awestruck with the beauty of his performance. I will miss your warmth, kindness and laughter. We will all miss your inspiring talent.
--Michael Reinbold, St. Joan's member.
David Cramer
December 22, 2003
We will all miss seeing Bob at the Southeast Soccer games. He was a wonderful, humorous person, and a great dad.
Our thoughts are with the family.
David Cramer
Carol Reed
Alex Cramer
Mallory Cramer
Alex Anderson
December 22, 2003
I hope for the best for Bob's family and friends in this trying time. Bob, I only wish I had known you better.
Patty Huber
December 22, 2003
Oh Bobby, we will miss your energy and love! You are with Garry now...playing with the Lord's band! Our thoughts and prayers are with Mary and your family!!! Thank you for the wonderful memories to carry us through this hard time!!!
Pam & Bob Gilbertson
December 22, 2003
Our sincerest sympathies.
Terry Hanson
December 22, 2003
Bob will missed by all of the people he has touched in his life. He surely will be missed by me, his brother. Bob was everything I wanted to be, only better.
Miss you Bob.
Terry
Nancy Simmons
December 22, 2003
I have to correct my first entry. We met Bob doing Godspell, which is where David and I met. Bob played a great Jesus.
Peggy Chambers
December 22, 2003
I was stunned to hear of Bob's death. Mary has been a joy to work with for a dozen years. I have magined her lovely family only through working with her--and seeing her once selling Girl Scout cookies with her daughter. Godspeed, Mary, to you and all of you who carry love for Bob in your hearts.
Peggy
Nancy Simmons
December 22, 2003
Cottonpatch Gospel brought Bob into our lives. David and Bob carpooled to Plymouth for about a year. I think many fun times were had both on stage and in the car. Bob was a wonderful, thoughtful, gentle man with a great sense of humor.
Jan Jannett
December 22, 2003
Bob was a great co-worker - always cheerful and willing to help out.
We will miss him a lot.
Jenny Blaine
December 22, 2003
I'm in shock; this is such a loss. Bob will be forever memorable for me and others as the absent-minded hippie professor of the training extravaganza movie "How not to teach a computer class." We will miss this wonderful, warm, talented man. Condolences and best wishes to Bob's family.
David Carey
December 22, 2003
Bob was a delightful man with a glowing smile and a kind heart. He was a true professional, both in his technical work and his many musical/theatrical performances.
He was a good man who brought joy and laughter to many audiences and will be truely missed.
Suzanne Graff/Gomes
December 22, 2003
Bob created a great sense of humor, amazing humility and attention to work ethic while we worked together on 'The Spitfire Grill' last year. And when he sang, I was sure it was from his heart.
He spoke with great love and pride for his family and for Mary.
My deepest sympathies to Mary and the children. God's love to all of you.
Mindy Davis
December 22, 2003
Bob and I worked together and shared an office for a few years. I have so many great memories of Bob and I feel very lucky to have known Bob. Bob was such a wonderful person; there are not enough words to describe how much everyone loved him. He always had great advice and a funny story to share. He touched so many lives in such a short lifetime. May his love, teachings, and memories live on forever.
Wendy Vickers
December 22, 2003
One of the great voices of the St. Joan of Arc musical family will be sadly missed.
Go rest high, Bob.
Charles and Lucy Nelson
December 22, 2003
Our thoughts go out to Bob's family and friends.
Carla Bates
December 22, 2003
Bob Hanson - A great guy, nice Dad, and a major part of our community
Bob, we will miss you. Rest in peace and God be with your wife, children and all of us during this time of grief and transition.
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