Norman G. Hansen

Norman Hansen, 98, of Newburyport, passed away on November 4, 2025, leaving this world a better place because of his presence in it. While Norman truly enjoyed his life on this Earth, he is now rejoicing to be reunited with his extraordinary wife Jean with whom he shared a charmed 66-year marriage until her passing in 2016.

Born to Scandinavian immigrant parents in East Port Chester, New York on Christmas Day in 1926, Norman served during World War II as an instructor in the 10th Mountain Division at Camp Hale in Colorado. After the War, he attended Norwich University in Vermont. Norman met Jean on City Island, a quaint seaside community in the Bronx, NY, where they married in 1950.

After living briefly in rented homes, Norman, an amazing craftsman, built a home in Wilton, Connecticut where he and Jean raised their three children.

Relocating to Massachusetts in 1975, they moved to their beloved Newburyport in 1981. Norman was captivated by the picturesque town, the tranquility of the lapping waves on the Plum Island shore, and the natural wonders of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.

In 1985, Norman and Jean moved to Carleton Drive where they met their amazing neighbor, John Brewin, who came to become Norman’s best friend. For fifteen years, in the basement of their home, Norman and Jean operated New England Printer & Publisher, a monthly trade magazine known not only for its informative articles, but also for the breathtaking cover photographs of New England, many of which were taken by Norman’s dear friend Kim Pickard.

Norman enjoyed visiting other parts of the world. He and Jean traveled extensively both domestically and internationally, which enriched their lives tremendously. After Jean’s passing, Norman continued to travel with his friend Hans Erwich.

Throughout his life, Norman was dedicated to enriching the lives of others through leadership roles in both church and community organizations. Norman led the preservation project focused on the steeple restoration of historic Old South Church, and he twice joined teams in New Orleans dedicated to rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina.

Norman loved music, particularly Classical and Big Band. In his early years, he played both the trumpet and tuba, and sang in the choirs at many of the churches he attended. A talented woodworker, Norman crafted exquisite pieces of furniture and eagerly refinished antique items for his friends. A lover of the outdoors, he spent many happy hours tending his garden.

Norman is survived by his daughters Susan Pramberg of Newton NH and Kathy Hansen of New York City; grandchildren Michael and Julia Pramberg, Jamie and Reilly Scull, and Andrew Hansen (son of Norman’s son Stephen, who predeceased him); son-in-law Jay Pramberg; sister-in-law Gunnel Hansen; nephew Mortiz Hansen and niece Sabina Beesley. Norman will be fondly remembered by Rebecca Poretta, Ellen Hannick and countless others.

A memorial service celebrating Norman’s life will be held at Belleville Congregational Church, 300 High Street, Newburyport, on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 11:00 am. A reception at the Church will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Belleville Congregational Church Building Fund.