John Hansen Obituary

John was the husband of Willa who was my sister Roxanne's (Roxy's) best friend. I know she would have loved him, and though him perfect for Willa. She would have settled for nothing less for her best friend. Although, she never had the opportunity to meet him as a mortal, she will greet him in heaven. Together she will get to share with him stories of his beloved Willa, and he will tell her stories of her best friend. What a wonderful man you were to so many people, and a testament of how love should be.

Dad's testimony of Jesus Christ was precious to him. He tried every day to be a little bit more like his Savior. Christ was Dad's example and the template of what a real man should be. Christ is a perfect teacher because he taught with love. Like the Savior, Dad held a place in his heart for every person that he taught. He taught the nursery child needing to feel comfort, the primary child preparing for baptism needing to feel the spirit, the impressionable high school seminary student needing to feel their potential, the non-member he challenged to ask - needing to know they are a Child of God, even the seasoned High Priest, needing to feel how simple the truth is again.

Christ also sought out the “one.” Every spirit matters in His eyes and is worth the effort to seek and find, regardless of where they are on their journey. Dad was an instrument in Heavenly Father's hands in this work. I was lucky enough to be his Home Teaching companion where we would visit individuals and families in the church. He took this calling seriously and showed me time after time how to teach and serve them. I remember spending a lot of time visiting with people I'd never seen in church, but Dad knew them and their hearts.

Christ reminded us that the temple is His Father's House. We must be worthy to attend and strive to serve there as often as we can. Dad had a special fire for serving in the temple. He found the peace and purpose that are promised to those that sacrifice worldly desires and tasks. It wasn't easy for him, or the family, to work all week long and then spend a Saturday working in the temple. But he knew that's where the Lord wanted him to be. Dad brought back as much of the temple as he could when he came home, invigorated, happy, and ready to teach his family of its truth and importance. Because of his preparation, he played a special role when Allison and I went through the temple with our eternal companions. In the last few years, he almost had to be carried out because he'd try to work longer than he had physical strength. However, he knew that he was only able to last that long because he was being supported by ministering angels.

The temple is where the Lord connects our lives with our ancestors. Our service is not only to our Savior, but it is to our brothers and sisters that have come before us. Dad knew the significance of this service occurring inside and outside the temple. Dad has amazing parents who have spent a lifetime researching and preparing our family history for temple work. Dad used his knowledge of technology to facilitate and hasten this work. He made sure Grandma had all the tools and training she needed to bring as many branches of our family tree to light as possible. He shared in the excitement and joy of learning about his family with her, in multiple trips to Utah and many late-night sessions. I know that Dad is being greeted by countless spirits, eternally thankful for his dedication to the work.

Christ taught us that families are essential to the Plan of Salvation and Happiness. It is within the family that we learn the patterns of love, service and respect. It was important to our Savior to make sure his sweet mother was taken care of. Christ's purpose was to fulfill his Father's plan and bring Him glory. Dad has great parents, and he knew it. He respected his father and wanted to make him proud. He learned from his father and has taught his children things like “When talking to people, measure your words twice before speaking.” He has watched over his mother and helped her make tough decisions and accomplish impressive projects. The man our father was, was only possible because of the influence of these great teachers.

Christ spent his life working hard. There were countless trials and obstacles that he overcame because of his perseverance. Even at His lowest, Christ proceeded to do his Father's will. Dad also worked hard and expected his children to do the same. Through his example, we learned to not give up, to finish the job, and be proud of what we'd done. He taught us not to do the minimum required. For example, every time Dad vacuumed a room, he moved the couches to get underneath and behind. If you're going to do a job, do it right.

Christ was exactly obedient to his Father and obeyed Him out of love. Dad knew the commandments and the teachings of the prophets and made sure he was on the right side of the Lord, and counseled his family to do the same. He wanted to protect us from evil influences entering the home regardless of their format. I was impressed as a youth that Dad knew his weaknesses and would avoid even the smallest temptation. He avoided even the appearance of evil. Dad insisted on clean language. Dad honored the Sabbath and kept it holy. He made sure to stay in his Sunday clothes all day long as a reminder to all of us that we needed to treat it differently than other days. Even as hard as it was getting dressed the last few weeks of his mortality, he insisted that he be in his Sunday clothes on Sunday.

Music in our home was important to Dad. He played the saxophone early in life but I only saw him play the harmonica – which he was crazy good at even though I never heard him practice. He sang all the time, but never considered himself good (maybe because Mom sang so beautifully). We loved the quirky songs that he'd sing to us like “A you're adorable”, “Marvelous Toy,”and plenty of fun folk songs. Dad filled our home with uplifting music which helped us feel the spirit. He sang because he loved it and I know he used music to praise his Father in Heaven. Going to church choir was standard, so when I was old enough, I went too. Having dad there made it comfortable and I felt accepted. Because I tagged along, I was able to experience, and be a part of beautiful music like the Easter Cantata, the Messiah and the Forgotten Carols. I know that the spirit testifies through music and I have dad and mom to thank for their influence.

Christ lived a simple life, encouraging us to learn all we can. They say when an old person dies, a library burns down. Can you imagine the size of Dad's library if he lived any longer? He loved knowledge. He would read anything he could get his hands on, but loved gospel and history topics the most. He passed on that love for knowledge and encouraged us to learn and grow spiritually and scholastically. It was cool to be smart in our family, since we had such great examples. Dad also used what he learned around the house and for others. If something was broken, he learned how to fix it. The bonus, if it was a new problem, is that he could feed his tool-buying-disease. Have you seen the garage? He loved trying out new tools and sharing them with others. This taught us self-reliance, problem solving and we gained confidence. I still can't pay to have someone change the oil in my car or fix my computer – my Dad taught me how to do that myself. Self-reliance was important to Dad since it's hard to help others if you need help yourself. Dad was generously thrifty, great at food storage and found values to keep it stocked.

Two of the amazing characteristics of Christ are His patience and forgiveness. These are such important blessings that show us of his love and give us hope. There are so many opportunities for patience and forgiveness as a father. We crashed cars costing thousands of dollars and we made stupid mistakes causing thousands of tears. Throughout everything, Dad loved and supported us. He taught us about the Atonement through his example. We made mistakes and he'd allow us to keep trying. One Christmas the kids made all of our gifts for each other instead of buying them from the store. Dad spent special time with each of us deciding and building the presents we'd give. He patiently helped us with all of the tools so that we could be proud of our work. It's hard to let your children fail, having faith that they'll learn from the experience, but Dad courageously let us try. He accepts each of us for who we are and loves us just the same. This helps us try harder to make him proud. I had a microprocessor course in college and found out that the professor worked closely with my Dad. I felt more pressure in that class than any other. I wanted my performance to be a positive reflection on my Dad and for him to be proud of my work. Little did I know that because of his unconditional love, I was already a success in his eyes.

Dad has been crucial in helping me Come unto Christ. I am so grateful to be his son, to have had such a righteous priesthood holder in my life. His humility meant that I didn't get to hear him brag about all of the impressive things he had done in his life. His faith meant that I got to see him do the most important things in this life. Dad came unto Christ and found in Him eternal rest.
-Nathanael

We have only good memories of John. He was always so kind, and made us feel like anything we said was interesting to him. Our sons were close friends of Thans, and both of them spent many good hours at the Hansens, where they always felt so welcome. One time when we went to either drop off or pick up our kids, John mentioned he had an old Zenith radio. So we went to check it out. Laughing about turning it on and waiting for the tubes to warm up. Sure brought home memories of “the good old days” when that was considered high-tech. Tom Sayers

A fond memory I have of John is when the girls were in school. I was always impressed that John would and could take time to help at school and especially seemed to enjoy going on field trips. He was one of a few, if any other, Dads that would do that! Debbie Shade

I will always remember John wearing a smile, every time I would see him he looked so happy. From Kelsey Shade Perkins

Dear Hansen Family,
The first thing I remember about Mr. Hansen was Emily always having $2 bills to pay for her lunch. I had never seen one and thought they weren't real. He was so kind and loving. From Lindsey (Shade) Tippets

The Doyle Family loves John and Willa! John is one of the sweetest men I know. His precious spirit glowed. The last time I saw him in the foyer at the Lexington building, he seemed to have (to me) visible aura of white light about him – I'm only sorry I didn't hug him then but somehow I know he knows my intent – He is happy and at peace and wrapped in the love of our Savior and Heavenly Father. Be at peace as well. Love Cathy and Bill Doyle

Well, of course, he was my parent's bishop and my brother's seminary teacher in Widefield. I knew John from the single's ward here, and I remember going out to the Manti Pagent (via Richfield) and was meeting up with Willa there. He was excited (but acting nonchalant) on the way out, and when I met Willa I understood why. A great man who loved his family, his children, and other people – a blessing to have in this world!!! Cynthia Hester – Lemeseny

Hansen Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers! Thank you for your wonderful strong testimonies of love, peace, dedication, courage, faithfulness, and example of Jesus Christ. When I think of our first Sunday at church, I think of John and Willa welcoming us into the ward and welcoming and loving our sweet two-year-old Lily into nursery! She loved nursery and was blessed to have such AMAZING, LOVING, COMPASSIONATE teachers! Every time I saw John and Willa, they always had a smile on their face which helped me to smile! I always felt loved and cared for by them. One thing that I loved about John was his strong, powerful testimony! I loved when he would walk up to share his testimony during Fast and Testimony meeting. I felt the Spirit each time. I felt a determination that I can have the courage to face the trials of life with a smile on my face! I was uplifted! Thank you John, Thank you Hansen Family for your example! John will always be remembered, when I think of him I will always smile! We love your family and are thinking and praying for you. Love, Julie, Jeff, & Lily Turner

There are so many fond memories of John -
A gentle kind spirit who had so much compassion to those he knew, especially to the young men in the ward.
A soft-spoken teacher who knew the scriptures and loved his Savior, Jesus Christ, because of this knowledge.
An intelligent soul – not only of his engineering expertise, but of true wisdom of eternal truths found in the temple
A lover of music – not only of the guitar and Beetles, but of the hymns. His strong, deep voice invited the Spirit into our sacrament meetings
An example of the Priesthood – Father, husband, ALL that is GOOD!

Although I never worked directly with John – I will always remember him as one of the nicest people I've ever known. John Koch

May it be of comfort knowing you are in the prayers and thoughts of many. I knew John through Willa and our involvement in Family and Community Education. Love, Georgina Boysen

My Dear Friend Willa & Family,
John will forever be in our hearts and in our memories. I sure did appreciate all his help on the computers, his humor and of course (!) I have finger lights! Making it possible to read in bed at these state conferences without bothering others! Willa, I am always here for you. Please come over for “Tea on the Patio.” God Bless & Keep You, Dodie
We first met John and Willa at the Denver Temple because our son Nathan had asked his daughter Alli to marry him. So we went and attended a temple session with John and Willa several months before the wedding and got to know them. Even though John met us, he still allowed Nathan to marry Alli, which was a great risk!! Although he was obviously very smart, John had a great sense of humor which we greatly appreciated. I remember that John served in the Temple and officiated at Alli's endowment. His love of the Lord and temple service allowed him that special moment. I think that's instructive: to be in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing. John always was. Brett and Cathy Howe

From Kristi Wood:
John was such a kind, gentle, man, who loved everyone. I loved his soft-spoken tone that was always so caring. I loved his talks and how he would always sing to usl He had such an appreciation for music in which he demonstrated as he sang whether in a talk or in choir. He was so wonderful no matter what calling he was placed in. I especially loved how he interacted with the nursery children – such patience :). He lived a wonderful life serving those around him – you could just see that. I don't think he ever had a crossed word with anyone! I will miss him very much, I will miss his tender soul and knowing how much the Lord needs him now is a comfort to us.
Kristi Wood

From Beth and Dean Babcock:
Hi John. You were a very caring man and you take care of anyone that came in to your life. Dean thought a lot of you!
Love and prayers, Beth and Dean Babcock

From Della Mussey:
Dear John,
I have to support you family in their time of grief. I know I haven't known you long but I knew you were a very loving person. You'll be dearly missed.
A friend, Della Mussey

From Ryan Hansen:
Grandpa was the most courageous person I know. He was always working on his computers. When we went there the last time I saw him, he was telling us stories that was very special too me. I know he is in a way better place and I know he is looking down and saying “I am glad I'm here!” I know I will see him again.
Love, Ryan

From Zoey Hansen:
John was my grandpa and I love him so much! I miss him and even when he was sick, I loved to sit and talk to him. He had fantastic stories and he could always make me laugh! We always knew when he came because he was on his motorcycle! I have a lot of fun things from him and I will always remember him as an amazing grandpa and I love him so much!

From Brandon Hansen:
John helped me fix our ceiling fan. He had me climb up on a ladder and told me to put a clip on each of the blades until we found the right one. I remember how smart and kind he was about everything.

John, you taught us patience, understanding and unconditional love. You are and forever will be a true disciple of the Savior. Find and save us some good spots over there.
Willa, call for anything.
Love you guys always,
Nick Stolk

We're so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers.

My Uncle John was the "cool uncle." It didn't hurt that he was the only brother my dad had on his side of the family, but he still would have been classified as the cool uncle, nonetheless. He had the motorcycle and would take me for rides on it when I was little. He was soft-spoken, funny, caring, giving and married an amazing woman who is just like him, so she fit right into our family. He was insanely smart and ended up working for HP. How lucky were they to get him?! He was known for his thrift store finds....mostly his clothes. So funny!! Only a computer guru could get away with some of his outfits, I promise you. He has been sick for a few years and knew his time was limited, but he willingly participated in a medical trial, knowing that although the medication wouldn't help him, his participation in the trial would help the doctors and other patients down the road. These are the memories I have of my Uncle John. Today he was released from his earthly pain and I couldn't be happier for him. He will be greatly missed by those of us left behind.

John was a leader over my church youth group when I was a teen and he showed such patience and love, even when we were little punks. I have remarked to my family before that I thought he emulated love and patience like we're all supposed to. I have a lot of respect for John and have warm wishes and love for his family.

Willa and family, I'm so sorry for your loss! John and your family have been such an inspiration to me. I have always been impressed and inspired by your family. Lots of love!

Few people come into our lives and leave an indelible impression, John was such a person. His smile immediately put you at ease and his sincere interest in you made you feel accepted. It was always about you and never about him. I always enjoyed his unique since of humor simple and yet, at times, profound. His was the most humble, unpretentious person I have ever met. I remember when he was working at HP and having some trouble with his feet he would wear fluffy rabbit slippers to work, because they were comfortable. He was always handing out little gadgets and coins to people to cheer them up and make them feel loved, not by him necessarily, but by their Heavenly Father. John was always there to help others and never asked for, or expected, help for himself. The true love of Christ is charity and John exemplified Christ's love. He will be missed, but never forgotten.

to john who was a very good friend and a very good man. may the good lord welcome you into heaven. and be free to run, talk and laugh and play. thank you john for your friendship. elliot king

I am so sorry for your loss! I know that he is in a good place now. Brother Hansen was a very wonderful person and I am going to miss him. He was a great example in my life. May you have the comfort that you need at this time. I will have you in my prayers.

John had unflinching devotion to his family and to the principles of his religion. Of course he was a genius but he earned it through insatiable curiosity and study and thought. He was also always thinking of others and of ways to be of service without any fanfare. And he had a great sense of humor even in the midst of battling cancer. He was the kind of man the world is so in need of. And his loss is very painful to those closest to him. Willa, our prayers are with you and your family that our Father will comfort you and help you find your way as you continue on in life, waiting for the time when you can be together again with the man you have loved so much for so long.

God looked upon his garden
And found an empty place.
He then looked down upon this earth
and saw your tired face.
He put his arms around you
And lifted you to rest.
God's garden must be beautiful
He always takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering
He knew you were in pain.
He knew you would never
Get well on earth again.
He saw the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb
So he closed your weary eyelids
And whispered "Peace be thine."
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn't go alone
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
You left us beautiful memories,
Your love is still our guide.
And though we cannot see you,
You are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one
The chain will link again.
poem Author: Unknown
Prayers to all the family
Don & Mary Fuhs

Mary, Donna, Emilee,
I am sorry for your loss and the loss to family and friends. John was very brilliant and when I first met him after his mission I could see how intelligent he was. No doubt he would accomplish many things and have a great life of service in the Gospel. I am so sorry for your loss.
Memories have a great place in life and I pray you'll have many of him. I'm grateful to have known him. It is hard to lose a sibling and family. It has beem 17 1/2 years for us. Never easy, but look forward to a great gathering some day.
Our Love to you all.
Janae and Larry Blake, Richfield , UT