Dennis Howard Hansen

DENNIS H. HANSEN

OBITUARY

Dennis passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 70 on Easter, April 21, 2019. He is survived by his mother, Eleanor Gore, and his father Howard "Buck" Hansen of Hansen Excavating (Gayle Brandt,) Park Falls, his sister Christine M. Brown (Robert Justin Brown) of Pittsburgh, and brother Brad Hansen of Pewaukee. In addition to many friends he will also will be missed by his nieces and nephew, Tricia, Hilary and David Brown and their partners Kerry McCormack, Matt Passarello and Alexandra Brown and baby Emma Brown. We were terribly remiss in not telling of Sharon Stanton. She remained especially close to Dennis, and his entire family throughout most of his adult life. They shared many ups and downs and helped each other immensely thru the tough times.

Dennis was a magnetic and charismatic guy who was loved by everyone who knew him. He was equally adept at delivering a good "shot" and a great hug. Dennis ran his own company, Dennis Hansen Excavating and Trucking, for over 40 years from his home. Raised in Brookfield, he graduated from Brookfield East High School in 1967. He was passionate about racing and loved cars and bikes. He worked hard and loved his community of fellow workers. Once known as "Burl", Dennis was a gentle giant with a huge and generous heart.

He was also an intellectual at heart. He and his dear friend, Dr. Eddie Forrest, had many deep conversations about politics and regularly solved the world's problems. Dennis even ran for Wisconsin State Senate and got on the ballot!

Dennis could tell a story with the best of them, and captured the attention of the room with ease. It was always fun to hear Dennis and his brother Brad telling stories together, delivering playful jabs back and forth. He loved the North Woods and Hansen Family Lake. He especially loved deer hunting season Up North not so much to hunt, but to enjoy the camaraderie. His last visit to Hansen Lake for Thanksgiving was especially memorable as all present enjoyed watching the budding relationship with the youngest member of his family, Emma Brown.

All are welcome to attend to a celebration of his life luncheon this Saturday, April 27, 2019 starting at 1:00 pm at Panos Banquet Hall (Bullwinkles upper level), 20290 W Bluemound Road in Brookfield. Your toasts and personal stories will be most welcome!

MAY 1, 2019 UPDATE:
Dennis would be so happy to know that $700.00 was donated to The Education Partnership to help students succeed in the classroom.
A Dennis H. Hansen memorial plaque will be put on display at the Teacher Resource Center.

Future donations will help to offset funeral expenses and can be sent to Brad Hansen or Christine Brown.

The family would like to thank all who offered sympathy and those who were able to attend Dennis's Celebration of Life this past Saturday. Your support, sentiments, and many cards have been much appreciated.