Donald E. Hansen

Donald E. Hansen, age 84, of Northville, passed away October 19, 2018.  He was born on November 10, 1933 in Detroit, Michigan; son of Edward and Bertha (nee Hill) Hansen.  When growing up in Detroit his family owned a large home near Olympia Stadium. They rented out rooms to many hockey players and he once shared comic books with Gordie Howe. Don graduated from Cass Tech in Detroit, class of 1951. He then continued his education and earned a bachelor’s degree in 1955, a master’s degree in 1958, and an education specialist degree in 1965 all from Wayne State University.  Don was united in marriage to Jean M. Chapman on August 29, 1968; they spent 50 loving years together as husband and wife.

Don worked as a teacher of Industrial Arts at Livonia Public Schools for 41 years; he retired in 1995. He was a licensed builder and did carpentry work on older houses in the area. Don was the neighborhood champion of restorations, preservations, and additions. His carpentry was a passion; he did very fine work and was a true artist. Don enjoyed gardening; he grew beautiful roses and delicious tomatoes. He was a talented woodworker; his projects were intricate and complicated. They included ornaments, sconces, display cases, lamps, cabinets, bookshelves, and knife holders. Don’s role as educator continued in he personal life; he gave wonderful advices on remodeling, plumbing, and restoring. He liked teaching “do it yourself” techniques and would often loan out the perfect tool for the job.  Don was a friend to everyone; he enjoyed talking to people and giving treats to the neighborhood dogs.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Jean M. Hansen; his children, Jennifer (Cameron) Carmody and John (Catherine) Hansen; his brothers, Richard (Mary Sue) Hansen and Leonard (Paula) Hansen; and his grandchildren, Annaka, Owen, Calvin, Nathaniel, and Spencer.  Also loved by many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial visitation will be held Friday, November 9, 2018 from 5pm until 8 pm at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 W. Dunlap, Northville.  A celebration of life will be held Saturday, November 10, 2018 from 3pm until 5pm at Genitti’s Restaurant, 108 East Main Street, Northville.  He will be laid to rest at Rural Hill Cemetery in Northville.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to the Northville Historical Society 215 Griswold Ave., Northville, MI 48167 or Northville Art House , 215 W. Cady St., Northville, MI 48167.