Cleo Franklin Hansen

Cleo Franklin Hansen, a dedicated husband, loving father, cherished pap, and grand pap, who peacefully passed away on October 3, 2024, at the age of 83 surrounded by his loving family. Frank was born in Detroit, MI on September 6, 1941, and was a proud Navy veteran who served his country with honor. His kind and loving nature touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Frank was a man of strong values and unwavering love for his family. His dedication to his loved ones was unparalleled, His devotion to his wife of 38 years, Jessie, and their children Mitzi Hansen, Sherry (Jeff) Waite and Jaime Hunter, was unwavering. Frank deeply cherished his role as pap to Bradley (Noel) Hansen, Joshua Waite and Emily (EJ) Biedel, and relished in being a grand pap to Aubree, Liam, Madison, and Ashton. He was a loving nephew of Joyce (late Henry) Green. Frank was the son of the late Fern Rubene Crittendon Lapointe and the late Charles Hansen. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Mary Opal Green, who raised him after his mom passed away at a young age, by his sister, Mary Ellen Turner who he cherished and his Uncle Richard & Aunt Gertrude Crittendon both whom he loved dearly. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and extended family. Frank will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family, and his memory will live on through stories filled with love and laughter.
Franks 's fondness for staying busy was evident in his passion for caring for his home, tending to his garden, and making memories with his family & friends, especially loved doing things with his wife's sorority chapter, Beta Sigma Phi where he held the honor of being an envoy member and loved doing service projects and especially loved the socials because it always involved eating! He had a natural gift for spoiling his loved ones and took great pleasure in traveling to Pennsylvania to visit his children and their families but also took great pride in visiting with his friends. His passion for creating lasting memories was evident as he always made an effort to attended family gatherings, camping trips, vacations, and family reunions. Frank's lively spirit was also reflected in his love for music, particularly country classics by artists like Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Willie Nelson and let's not forget his all-time favorite, Dolly Parton. Fondly remembered for his energetic spirit and love for creating memories, Frank's legacy lives on through the stories he shared, the songs he sang even off key, and the joy he brought to those around him with his smile and laughter. He loved playing card games and Yahtzee. Frank also was an avid reader and loved getting lost in a mystery!
A man of service, Frank held his time in the Navy close to his heart. He was a proud Navy veteran who served as a chief petty officer. He took immense pride in his service to his country, sharing stories of his time in the Navy and his interactions with historical figures, such as John F. Kennedy. Frank's patriotism was unwavering, and his dedication to his country was a core part of his identity.
In addition to his familial and patriotic commitments, Frank had a deep appreciation for nature, citing wolves as his spirit animals as it represented his commitment to protecting and providing for his family, much like these strong creatures do for their own. His collection of trains will serve as a legacy passed down to the generations that follow him, a symbol of his enduring spirit and love.
In honor of Frank's memory, a visitation to celebrate his life will be held on Thursday (October 10) at Frederick Funeral Home, 2553 Banning Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45239 from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Frank's life and sharing cherished memories together. On Friday (October 11) you are invited to join us at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45428, at 10:00 a.m. for a brief service, a gun salute and the burial where he will be laid to rest. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association Greater Cincinnati Chapter, 720 E Pete Rose Way, Suite 330, Cincinnati, OH 45202.