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Stephen Hanson Obituary
Stephen J. Hanson passed away peacefully on the evening of Monday, January 20, 2025, at the age of 64.
A true monument in the beauty industry, Stephen dedicated his life to his craft as a top hairstylist. He thrived off of making people feel their best in and out of his chair. His large clientele speaks to the impact he had on so many people. Stephen was a visionary artist who pushed the bounds of everyday hairstyling. He created unique formulations, haircuts, and art that exceeded people's dreams. His career was marked by his exceptional talent as a board-certified colorist, master haircutter, international platform artist and the 40 years he spent on Newbury Street at some of Boston's elite salons including: Jean- Pierre & Co., Daryl Christopher, Mizu. For the past four years he has operated his own successful salon, Blondeterauge, in Boston's South End.
Many people knew Stephen by his cowboy boots and eccentric wardrobe, but it was his larger-than-life spirit and endless generosity to charities, clients, family and friends that left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. No one could light up a room with a charming smile, jingle of spurs, and random acts of kindness like he did.
Stephen is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Shelly Hanson, Alana Pixler, Faye Hanson, and Aubrey Gilquist. His greatest treasures include his three daughters, Dasha Hanson, Khari Lara, and Daisy Hanson, along with his four cherished grandchildren Cole, Isabella, Torren, and Adrian. He also loved and spoiled many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers or cards, Dasha, Khari, and Daisy would love to celebrate their dad's life with extended family in Minnesota, (his birthplace and MN Vikings fan for life). In addition, they would like to make financial donations to places that Stephen was passionate about supporting. If you feel called to help them carry on Stephen's legacy, please follow the link to learn more and donate. https://gofund.me/b12aa568
May Stephen's memory continue to inspire those who knew him.
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Theresa Vu
March 17, 2025
Love you always papa bear
Nancy Brooks
March 3, 2025
My greatest sympathies to his daughters. I can only imagine the depth of your loss of your Dad. I was a client of Stephan for over 30 years . Like all of his clients I considered him the Gold standard. He was the only person I would let cut and color my hair. He proudly talked of his daughters and grandchildren . I heard of his generosity to his family. I did see him two days before he closed and it was clear he was suffering. I had hoped rest and sunshine would ease that, unfortunately it didn´t. He was a unique man, the best in the business. He loved his dog and I hope he is with Daisy and his sibling .
Mary Wells
March 3, 2025
Oh how very sad I am to hear this ... ... Stephen was truly one of a kind ... Brigitte and I loved him so much ... I'll never forget his kindness and generosity- especially when I lost my beloved Brigitte in January 2020 ... they were kindred spirits and I have no doubt they are having a fabulous time chatting about the worlds affairs & enjoying some artisan chocolate... of course- both looking fabulous
Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time ... and ... I am always here for you ladies - however I can help ... sending love and strength your way ...
warmly,
Mary Wells
Patti Lawton
March 3, 2025
Hi,
So sorry to hear about your dad! He was such a big presence and an unbelievable hair stylist! He will be truly missed
My Best,
Patti Lawton
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Monica Weiss
March 1, 2025
I´m so sorry for your loss. Stephen was truly one of a kind. A larger-than-life personality with a generous heart. His dedication to his family, his craft, his clients, and the assistants he trained was truly inspiring. He was the best at what he did, and I always trusted him completely. His admirable work ethic and unwavering commitment to doing his best will be deeply missed. My thoughts are with Stephen´s family during this difficult time.
Karin Stewart
March 1, 2025
When I moved to Boston in 1997, I needed to find a local hairdresser. My roommate referred me to her hairdresser, who she raved about. It was Stephen.
He gave me the best haircut I´d ever had, helping me elegantly grow out of an ill-advised perm. I was a fan for life. Though moving to New York, I made it a point to see him every time I was in Boston, and, when I moved back north, I made the trip from Portland every quarter, because no one has ever cut my hair the way he did.
I will always remember him for the artist he was, but also for his outsize personality, his sense of personal style, and his warmth and charm. I will always remember the day he treated my diminutive, then 80-year old mother like a rock star the day she decided to tag along to one of my haircuts.
Stephen, I know you were in frequent pain by the time your closed Blondetourage... I hope that you are healthy and in peace wherever you are, and that you´re making other women laugh and look like a million bucks! You are missed.
Jacqueline V Gordon
February 28, 2025
Over the past 40+ years I had the privilege of having Stephen as my hairdresser. He was a true perfectionist and so dedicated to his craft and his family. I am deeply saddened by his passing. May his memory live on in all of us.
Alycia Gillen
February 19, 2025
Over the past few years, I had the great privilege of being Stephen´s assistant. The talent he had was unmatched, and the dedication he had to his craft was truly inspiring. No matter what our days looked like or how late we stayed at the salon, I loved being there. Those 12-hour days were only bearable because of him. Even with our banter, he always knew what to do or say to put the biggest smile on my face and make me laugh uncontrollably.
Stephen was my role model and someone I looked up to more than anything. I would never tell him-being my stubborn self-but I always wanted to be just like him, not just as a hairdresser but as a person. He taught me how special it is to be different, to stand out, and to be whoever or whatever you want to be-giving it your all.
In a world that isn´t always kind, he taught me the importance of being genuine, humble, and, above all, honest. Words can´t describe how heartbroken I am. He was one of my favorite people in the world and the best mentor I will ever have.
My thoughts and prayers are with Dasha, Khari, Daisy, and the entire family during this incredibly difficult time.
Shannon Doyle
February 18, 2025
I am absolutely devastated by this news. Stephen, your dedication and passion to your craft was evident to all who crossed the threshold of your salon. The hair industry will never see the likes of someone with your talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit again. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the 10 years of trust, guidance, and care. My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time. Love you, & I will miss you my friend.
carole
February 17, 2025
You couldn't go to Stephen (which I did for almost 40 years!) without him making you laugh about happenings or be in fear of what was happening in the world. The week after I made reservations to take my family to Jackson Hole and see Old Faithful ----I got to learn about the predictions of what will happen if/when the Volcano fully erupts - and how the world will never be the same. Well, I did end up taking my family --- and things still coexist peacefully but he did educate me about things that CAN happen and gave me quite a scare.
I am making a donation in Stephen's name to Pine Ridge Reservation.
lori ulm
February 14, 2025
So sad to hear that Stephen didn´t get to enjoy any days in retirement. I have donated in his memory to the Pine ridge reservation. I remember the conversations we had about his dream to visit and help. Thanks for all the years of gorgeousness Stephen! Hugs
Phyllis Evan
February 11, 2025
I went to steven for 27 years. After my friend, Val insisted I do something about my hair which I´d been wearing the same way since college. I never got a bad haircut. I traipsed after him everywhere. Imagine 27 years without a bad cut!
I also got lots interesting philosophies, and opinions. I was never quite sure if he was serious or not.
Sandy Dick
February 11, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss and my condolences to Stephen's entire family. He was the best! His sense of humor, warmth, and ability to make my hair look fantastic; I always got compliments after I'd been with him. I was with him over 30 years and was shocked to hear this very sad news. He got me hooked onto Wordle and was always helpful with my crosswords puzzles. He was very talented in many ways.
Colleen Dierker
February 11, 2025
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. For over 30 years, Stephen was not just my hairdresser but a trusted and valued part of my life. He was dedicated, kind, and hardworking-qualities that made him exceptional at what he did and an even more remarkable person.
I always looked forward to our conversations, and I will truly miss the warmth and care he brought to every visit. When it was time for my daughter to find someone she could trust with her hair, I knew exactly who to introduce her to. We will both miss him greatly. It was clear how much he loved his family-his daughters meant the world to him, and in later years, his grandchildren brought him even more joy.
Please know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. His kindness and presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in all those whose lives he touched.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Colleen and Erin
Kathleen Browne
February 11, 2025
I am so sorry to hear this news. I had been going to Stephen for over 30 years when he headed to Florida. I am so sad that he didn't get a longer time to relax in the sun. He was a truly unique person and the best in his profession. Thoughts and prayers to his children and grandchildren (and his beloved dog).
Audrey Manguso
February 11, 2025
Sasha, Khari, and Daisy -
Your dad was truly talented, a master of his art. I was constantly asked over the 30+ years he styled my hair, whether short, long, dark or light, who did my hair, and his skill drew my mom, sisters, neice, and friends to his chair.
I am so sorry for your loss,
Audrey
Jennifer Karin
February 11, 2025
Stephen was my stylist for over 30 years and my heart breaks upon receiving this news. We went through marriages, divorces, pregnancies, child rearing together. Whether chatting about gaming (Tomb Raider) or movies (Nightmare before Christmas) he was always ready to provide parental advice and endless positive energy. He loved his clients and he LOVED his daughters. My heart goes out to Stephen's family. I will miss his smile.
Joann Grigoli
February 11, 2025
What a beautiful tribute to a one of a kind man. I had been seeing Stephen for over 30 years and he always said when he was done with my cut or color "Better?" Even though his health was compromised, he worked long hours and continued to make his clients happy.
kathy whalen
February 11, 2025
Stephen was my hairdresser and friend for over 30 years. Each visit, we had 60 minutes of interrupted conversation spanning from marriages, kids, business growth, political and world turmoil. There was a few years in the late 90´s where he was intently planning a new life-post apocalypse. He chose me to be on that elite team because I was a pilot and we needed to hijack a plane and land it in the Canadian tundra. I will miss your energy pal!
Jessica Knez Dulac
February 11, 2025
So sad to hear about Stephen's passing. When I was in college, he added color and the most gorgeous extensions to my hair- exactly what I needed and wanted during that time of discovery during my life. Sometimes I drove to his house to get them done there. I moved away for a decade and sadly we didn't reconnect, but occasionally I'd see him from a distance, crossing Newbury street in his leather pants and cowboy boots.
Always true to himself, always with incredible energy and so talented. What a wonderful man. Will miss him and his larger than life personality.
Teresa Izzo
February 11, 2025
My deepest condolences to Stephen's family and friends. Stephen styled my hair going way back to the 80s. No one but Stephen was able to handle my very thick curly hair...always confident in his approach, always a unique, wonderful individual. As a photographer, I brought Stephen into the studio and captured him in the portrait below. The love between a client and her stylist, God's speed Stephen.
Maryl Hammond
February 10, 2025
I am heartbroken to hear this news, I have been going to Steven for 40 years. I followed him wherever he moved to. I moved to the Cape and would travel to Boston for a cut...I didn't trust anyone else to cut my hair..rest in peace my friend..
Mary Hammond
Marilynne Martin
February 10, 2025
My sincere sympathies to Stephen's family. I am heartbroken to hear this news. I was just thinking the other day as planning my trip to NY that I would have to track down Stephen and get up to MA. I first met Stephen in 1986 while working up in Lynn at the NYNEX yellow pages. A colleague was perplexed that I was going back to NY for my haircuts and recommended Stephen. At our first visit he proclaimed - "I don't do what you want. I don't do what I want. I do what your hair wants!" I never got a bad hair cut or color from Stephen and stayed with him as I was transferred to DC, LA, CT, NY and then retired to Florida. He was a perfectionist and extremely efficient and good at his craft. He was worth traveling to, you just had to find where he moved to on Newbury Street since your last visit. Unfortunately, due to Covid, the last time I saw him was May 2019 before all the nonsense started. I will miss our many conversations on world events. Many would call it conspiracy theories, both both Stephen and I knew they were facts. His children should know that he loved them dearly and always talked about them and how proud he was of them. Stephen may you rest in peace. I will sorely miss you.
Nan Donald and Nancy Shilepsky
February 10, 2025
Nan and I are devastated to hear the news. Our hearts go out to his daughters about whom we heard for decades. Holding you all in our hearts.
Lisa & Jackie White
February 7, 2025
Jackie and I are deeply saddened about Stephen's passing. I've been going to Stephen for 24 years (Jackie 2 years), thanks to my friend, Karen! He was always welcoming-asking what you would like done to your hair while giving his input. I always learned something new when I sat in his chair. I already miss chatting about football, politics, spirituality, binge series, and his banter with Daisy. Stephen was a vivacious soul who lived life on his principles and on his own terms. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dasha, Khari, Daisy, and your family during this difficult time. God Bless.
ann m raider
February 6, 2025
For many many years Stephen cut/colored my hair...this journey was almost 20 years. He was a master of making me look good even as I got older. We would share world views as part of our monthly visits...He was a good talented person who loved his family most of all.
Alexandra Cook
February 5, 2025
Stephen was beloved by my whole family! John started with Stephen over 40 years ago and followed him wherever he went. Then my curly haired kids needed haircuts that no one else could manage, so they started seeing Stephen. My hair was looking fried and Stephen fixed it with Keratin and his special color. I have spent many hours in his chair. He turned me on to the Dexter series and several other psychological thrillers. My heart goes out to Daisy and his other daughters Your father was one of a kind!
Michele
February 5, 2025
Deepest sympathy to Stephen´s family at this most difficult time! I met Stephen years ago through my dear friend Deena. She said he´s amazing you have to see him for a cut! Yes I was amazed. I followed Stephen for yrs . One of my most memorable moments was when Stephen did my hair for a photo shoot for Boston magazine..... he gave me the best cut and color.... I remember him saying you´re not the suberb mom now. After that I attended a hair show in NYC with Stephen for hair extensions . I sat for hrs while he did his magic with my hair. His memory will live forever with many of us.
Victor lara
February 4, 2025
Stephen was filled with good vibes and a lot of knowledge best memories are when we got together for holidays listening to old music and laughing with loved ones !!!
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