Gary Lee Hansen was born on July 11, 1946 in Alexandria, MN the son of Alvin and Myrtle (Olson) Hansen. Gary grew up in Alexandria and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1964. He then enlisted into the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Thailand as a B-52 Bomber crew chief. After four years with the Air Force, Gary returned to Alexandria. He continued his education at the Alexandria Technical School for Tool and Dye. He started his career with A&C Engines and then became employed with Alexandria Extrusion Company as a machinist. He retired after 37 A,A½ years with the company on January 1, 2014.
He enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting in his spare time. He also liked cutting wood with his brother-in-law Wayne. Together they cut enough wood for both of their homes to be heated well during the winter months.
Gary found true happiness when he met Beverly Konkler. They were united in marriage on November 16, 1984 in Sisseton, SD and lived in Nelson. Gary worked hard all of his life and during retirement he enjoyed spending time with his wife Bev, his loving pet Molly, and tending to his yardwork.
Gary L. Hansen died on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at his home with his family by his bedside at the age of 69 years old. He is survived by his wife Beverly Hansen of Nelson; children Michelle (Jeff) Saiko of Alexandria; Roxann Vollan (Stuart Grosnick) of Garfield; David (Kelly) Vollan of Mandan, ND; Wendy Vollan of Mandan, ND; Kelly (Josh) Eddy of Alexandria; Gary Jahraus of Mandan, ND; and Shawn Jahraus of Eagle Bend; 11 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; brother Allan (Peggy) Hansen of Zimmerman; sisters Carol (Gene) Bearson of Osakis; and Joan (Wayne) Meyer of Alexandria; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Memorial service was held on Friday, February 19, 2016 at Our Saviours Lutheran Church in Nelson, MN with the Reverend Jeremy Pedersen officiating. Military Honors were accorded by the American Legion Post 87, VFW Post 936, VVA Post 235, and the Minnesota National Honor Guard.
Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.
www.andersonfuneral.net