Racine- William J. Hansen, 82, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 28, 2007 at Harmony of Racine – Assisted Living Center following a valiant struggle with dementia. A lifetime resident, Bill was born in Racine on October 5, 1924 to the late Sievert and Mary (nee: Petersen) Hansen. Following high school, he faithfully served our Country with the United States Navy during WWII aboard the ships of USS Atherton, Fessenden and Alecto. While serving in Albany, NY, Bill met the love of his life, Dorothy C. Chromik. They were married in Albany on August 10, 1946 before moving back to Racine. Bill’s heart was broken when his beloved Dorothy “Dot” passed away on January 16, 2005. Bill was employed by the Racine Water Dept. for over 28 years. He was a charter member of the Racine Radio Control Club. In addition to his passion for flying radio controlled airplanes, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. Prior to retiring from hunting, he cherished the fond memories of his final hunting trip to the Stan Cichanofsky deer camp in Spread Eagle, WI. Above all, he loved being in the surroundings of his entire family. Surviving are his daughter, Judy Ann Mallett of Cooper City, FL; son, Gary (Pam) Hansen of Racine; grandchildren, Rebecca Lynn and Robert William Hansen; brothers, Arthur Hansen and Richard (Arlene) Hansen; and by many special nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name. In addition to his parents and wife, Bill was preceded in death by sisters-in-law, Lois Hansen, Mary (Robert) Mann and Rose (John) McMahon; and brother-in-law, William (Ada) Chromik. Funeral services will be held in the funeral home, 4600 County Line Rd., on Wednesday, August 1, 2007 at 11:00 am with Rev. James Barsch officiating. Entombment, with military honors, will follow in the mausoleum of Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-8 pm and on Wednesday from 10-11 am. A heartfelt note of thanks to the wonderful staff of Harmony of Racine – Living Center for providing a beautiful home and outstanding care during the past two years; and to Hospice Alliance for compassionate end-of-life support that was so warmly extended. Your kindness will always be remembered.
Jeanne Wagner Rodriguez says
I was so saddened to hear of my Great Uncle Bill’s passing. I know he touched the lives of many, including myself.
His stories and story telling ability will live on forever live!
Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family.
– Jeanne, Frank and Eli
Paul Willems says
I will surely miss Willy. He was such a warm and happy person. I’ll always remember him with a smile on his face. My prayers will go up for the entire family during this difficult time. God’s blessings to you all.