Gary William Hansen, Sr.

Gary William Hansen was born July 23, 1941 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Joseph Howard Hansen and Mavis Munk. He graduated from Juab High School in Nephi, Utah, where he played football and basketball. He made many useful things in workshop during those years.

He married his high school sweetheart, Shelia Swasey, on December 19, 1959. They had three children, Karen Hendricks (William Hendricks), Peggy Hansen and Gary Hansen Jr. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Their marriage culminated after 52 years with Shelia's passing. On November 9, 2013, he and Barbara Williamson were sealed in the Jordan River Temple in South Jordan, Utah.

Gary developed a great work ethic through the years. He worked at many jobs, some at a very young age; one was as a hired ranch hand while still in high school which he did for several years even following high school graduation. Later he was the Automotive Manager for Kmart in Casper. Following that he became the Regional Sales Manager for a truck lighting company, traveling throughout the continental United States, Canada and Alaska. He retired following 24 years of service with TruckLite and moved back to Casper from Vancouver, Washington.

As a civilian, he served in Vietnam during the war as a supply clerk. He became very proficient with technology. He enjoyed his many church callings through the years, holding many leadership positions. One of his favorite was as Scoutmaster. He was an excellent bowler, garnering a 300 game at one point; then boxing captured his interest for a time. He loved playing church basketball and could bicycle for 12 miles at a time with his friend, Gary Fisher. He was always happiest when in the great outdoors, fishing, hunting or riding his Rhino. Attending the temple was always a delight for him and he attended many different ones throughout his life.

He had an eye for improving his homes and beautifying his yards.

Gary had an engaging personality and had a great sense of humor. He definitely was a people person.

After many health struggles, he passed away February 16, 2024 at home. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Shelia; and brother, Louis "Bud" Hansen. He leaves behind siblings, Thom Hansen; Carol McNew; Richard Hansen; and Lynn Hansen; eighteen grandchildren, (26 blended), 25 great grandchildren, (17 blended).

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