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Obituary for Dennis D. Hansen
Dennis D. Hansen, beloved Father of four sons, and Grandfather to eight grandchildren passed away peacefully on 10-27-2006 at age 60. Dennis was born on January 14, 1946 in Frederick Wisconsin. As a boy he favored many things. He was fond of family trips to Seattle to pick apples. He loved being a part of Boy Scouts where he learned a deep appreciation for nature and became an avid bird watcher. Dennis had a deep appreciation for his Grandfather, Chris Hansen, who immigrated to the West Denmark area in the late 1800’s from Denmark. Dennis learned many things from his Grandfather and then passed that knowledge on to those around him. As a young adult, Dennis married and eventually raised four successful sons. He embraced his responsibilities to help his children towards a better life than he had known. He joined Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing (3M) in 1966 as a young chemist with only the experience of High School and freshman organic chemistry under his belt. He then spent almost 30 years as a Product Development Specialist for 3M in St. Paul, pioneering polymer chemistry to become known internationally for his self-taught knowledge and expert judgment in the field. During these years Dennis conceived ideas, conducted experiments, and developed products that resulted in 7 Patents by the US Patent and Trademark Office. The products from these patents are now in products we use everyday. During this same time in life, Dennis began a family business of beekeeping that flourished into one of the largest honey producing operations in the state of Wisconsin. In addition, Dennis built and worked a small hobby farm on which he taught his boys how to raise livestock, grow vegetables; how to live from the land and be self-sufficient. Dennis used these experiences to teach his children the value of a strong work ethic and to prepare them for life’s many challenges. Dennis’s drive and determination to help his children have a better life than he had known was extraordinary. His earliest and strongest desire was for his children to go to college and obtain a 4 year college degree, a privilege no Hansen had yet achieved. Through the years Dennis witnessed his four boys all go through college and obtain a bachelors degree in their chosen field as well as advance degrees and professional designations. The skills he had taught them enabled all four to attend Universities. In doing so, Dennis ensured all four of us boys went to National Universities that ranked in the top of their respective fields. Three of his sons also served in the Armed Forces and two served in combat. He helped all of his sons achieve careers that contribute to society, careers they enjoy, and that provide for their families. Dennis’s legacy is embodied in the successes attained and opportunities available to his four boys, but most of all by the happiness that each of his eight grandchildren know. Dennis’s grandchildren are bright, happy, energetic, and well cared for. They have the kind of happy and productive life that he wanted for them. Dennis Hansen caused this to happen through his impact on others. He spent his life working to make the lives of others better than the life which he knew. His friends and family cherish the memory of him for the gift of a good life he has given to all of us. Find peace and rest well Dennis. We loved you always and will see you again when the time is right. Dennis is survived by his four sons: Lance, Jeff, Grant, and John; his eight grandchildren: Brandon, Keatton, Maicynn, Josie, Dylan, Julia, Jared, Kendall; and his sisters: Faye, Nancy, and Denise. Dennis was preceded in death by his mother Caroline, and Father Roy, and Sister Ruth Ann. Funeral services will be held at West Denmark Lutheran Church in Luck, Wisconsin on Thursday, 2 November 2006 at 11:00 am. Visitation will be held at Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, Wisconsin on Wednesday, 1 November 2006 from 6:00-8:00pm.
