William Ray Hansen

William Ray Hansen, affectionately known as "Bill," "Dad," and "Papa Bill" passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 73, surrounded by the love of his family after a decade-long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Bill's kind smile, patient spirit, and sweet nature will be a legacy to those who love him.
Born September 10, 1951, to Eugene and Dennye Hansen, Bill grew up in Oklahoma City with his two beloved brothers, Bob and Joe. He graduated from Northeast High School in 1969 and attended both Oklahoma State and Central State University before enlisting in the Army National Guard.
On June 30, 1973, Bill married Diana Harris, and they shared 51 years of marriage together. They raised their children, Stephanie and Grant, in Edmond, OK, where they made their home for more than 40 years. Together they celebrated life's milestones and cherished memories of watching their children's high school and college events, football and baseball games, cheerleading, and the activities of their granddaughters.
From an early age, Bill was a self-taught craftsman. He spent four decades working on projects in both home and commercial construction. Bill had a life-long interest in aviation and obtained his pilot's license. He found joy in life's simple pleasures, a Dr. Pepper, a slice of carrot cake, sitcoms from the 1950s, music from the 1960s and 1970s, and the companionship of dogs.
The unwavering devotion and commitment from his wife, Diana, especially during his illness, is admired as a true definition of love. One of Bill's favorite titles was "Papa Bill" to his triplet granddaughters, Avery, Emily, and Camdyn. He enjoyed fishing with them at his neighborhood pond. He looked forward to his weekly visits from his brother Bob. They would reminiscence their childhood, look through family photos, and watch old television shows together. He also loved his extended family, especially his cousins, to whom he declared himself the "favorite." Family was the centerpiece of Bill's life.
Bill's kind smile, patience, sense of humor, and his love for the simple joys in life will be carried on by his family, devoted wife Diana, daughter Stephanie Coy and husband Bryan, with granddaughters Avery, Emily, and Camdyn Coy, (Edmond), son Matthew Grant Hansen (OKC), and brothers Bob Hansen (Yukon) and Joe Hansen (Lenexa, KS)
A Celebration of Life for William "Bill" Hansen will be on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 2:00PM at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Edmond, OK.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local Alzheimer's Association to support research and resources for patients and caregivers.