Gary
Gary Hansen
d. April 21, 2007
Gary was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Elmer and Jeanette. The Hansen family moved to Hillsboro, Oregon, back to Minneapolis and on to Fridley, Minnesota all before Gary entered kindergarten. His family stayed in Fridley and Gary graduated from Fridley High School where he was a letter winner in football and played baseball.
Yet, his strong interest developed in art. Gary used his artistic skills, graduating from Bemidji State College with a degree in Art Education. He taught art in the Glencoe and the Walnut Grove Public Schools. Gary was completing a master's degree in the field of industrial education at the time of his death. He was also accomplished in food preparation and developed a second career in restaurant management throughout the entire Twin Cities area. All of these career accomplishments came about before Gary was 30 years old.
Gary is known for his athletic skills, having lettered in high school football, he was also proficient in orienteering and thoroughly loved working the canoe through the winding rivers of the Minnesota north country. He loved the winter when he could downhill ski, especially the fresh fallen powdered snow. He also developed his expertise in skydiving as a member of the Minnesota Skydivers Club, Inc. He was heard to say that he would so enjoy yet another career, that of being a skydiving professional. But, so much to enjoy and so little time.
During his college years at Bemidji State College, Gary met his future wife Carolyn; together they had one son, Kjell. Gary shared with Kjell his passion for skiing, wilderness outings, skydiving, and a love of fine food.
Gary is survived by his son Kjell, his mother, Jeanette, two brothers, John and Scott, two uncles, two aunts, eight cousins, two nephews, one niece, two grand-nephews and two grand-nieces. His father, Elmer, two aunts, Muriel and Ruth, and two of his uncles, Curtis and Willard, preceded Gary in death.
Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.
No funeral service will be held. A private family gathering will be held on Saturday, May 5.
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