Harry Lee Robert Hans

Age 92, of Jackson, Michigan, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026. He was born on November 5, 1933, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, to his parents, Harry and Mildred Hans. For over 70 years, he was married to the love of his life, Marilyn, who survives him. Harry resided in Jackson, Michigan.

Harry is also survived by Denise (Dennis) O’Brien and their three children Sara (Eric) Gray, Rachel (Kevin) Kolk and Abigail O’Brien (James Rowell). Jeff (Nancy) Hans and their three children Kelsey Hans, Jordan (Mason) Conway, and Dana (John) Morrow. Scott (Cindy) Hans, and their three children Aaron (Ana) Hans, Emily (Zac) Zielinski, and Asa Hans. Martha (Mike) Palmer and their four children Madison (Connor) Hudson, Mitchell (Ashley) Palmer, Trey Palmer, and Jeffrey Palmer. Harry was the proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

Harry is also survived by brother Kenneth (Carole), brother Steve, and sister Diane (Tim) Breininger. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Mildred Hans, brother James, and brother Gerald.

Harry grew up in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, where his parents instilled in him the foundations of faith, family, and a remarkable work ethic. He graduated from Concordia High School in Ft. Wayne and went on to attend Purdue University, where he studied Chemical Engineering and was active in the ROTC program on campus. Shortly after completing his studies, he married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Nace, and together they moved to Tecumseh, Michigan, where Harry began his career with Tecumseh Products.

Over 43 years—spent with the only company he worked for throughout his professional life—Harry built a career marked by dedication, results, and leadership. He started in the compressor division in research and development and his work ultimately extended across Research and Development, Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, and Sales and Marketing. He held numerous executive leadership roles with The Products including Global Operations Vice President for Tecumseh Products Compressor Division and Chief Operating Officer for Tecumseh’s Outdoor Power Equipment Division. His professional career reflected a consistent commitment to performing at the highest level both for himself and the organizations that he lead.

His professional achievements were, by his own example, secondary to the way he loved and lead his family. Harry took quiet pride not in himself, but in those entrusted to his care—devoted to Marilyn, to his children, and to the generations that followed. He was known for putting others first, for showing up faithfully, and for investing his time where it mattered most like teaching Sunday School, visiting shut-ins, and serving on boards both in the church and in the community.

Harry’s practical mind and capable hands were always at work, often finding a way to apply his engineering skill to create thoughtful, homemade solutions whenever something needed fixing. He valued meaningful conversation and lasting relationships. Harry made time to sit down, listen, and willingly share his opinions. He appreciated order and care in the everyday like having clean cars and a clean garage. He always seemed ready for another game of Euchre or a hand of cribbage.

Above all, Harry loved the Lord. After retirement, he returned to school to pursue a Divinity Degree through Concordia University, continuing a lifelong devotion to learning, theology, and the study of The Word. He listened to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, liked to sing hymns, and enjoyed teaching Bible Study, eager to share what he learned with others. Throughout his life Harry left his mark on everything he touched and he leaves behind an incredible legacy shaped by faith, family, and a desire to maximize the impact he made with the gifts God gave him.

A celebration of Harry's life will be held on Saturday, May 30th, 2026, at 11:30 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 122 W. Wesley St, Jackson, Michigan. Friends will be received at the church beginning at 10:30 AM until time of service.

Memorial contributions can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.