John William Hansen

John William Hansen passed away January 11, 2017 from complications of congestive heart failure. Bill was born December 7, 1928 in Cincinnati, Ohio to Hans Christian and Laura Marie (Deppe) Hansen. He moved to Tucson in 1962 where he devoted himself to Tucson Medical Center as Chief Financial Officer until 1991. Along with his work at TMC, Bill was a long-time Rotarian, served in various capacities for the American Red Cross, Arizona Hospital Association, Hospital Finance Management Association, National Association of Accountants, and St. Phillips in the Hills Episcopal Church.

Bill now joins his wives, Florence Ryan and Phyllis Stead along with his son, Steven Hansen and grandson Christian Wiedemer who preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Wilma Hansen, his children John William Hansen Jr., Carol Green, Diane Pappas, Pamela Wiedemer, Richard Hansen, Laura Hansen, and David Hansen; his step-children Joan Upham and Sandra Battock; and 18 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

Bill was greatly admired and respected by family and co-workers alike, but was also known for his zest for life. He was an every-weekend golfer and enjoyed his Friday night poker once a month. His Super Bowl parties were renowned! He played the piano and he and Wilma were season ticket holders to the Tucson Symphony Orchestra and Arizona Theater Company. As a lover of the Sonoran Desert, he enjoyed outdoor activities at Saguaro National Monument and Sabino Canyon. A huge sports fan, he had season tickets to U of A football games for years. After that he never missed a U of A game – basketball or football – on TV if he could help it.

Bill’s sense of humor was dry and unpredictable, and no one was immune from it i.e. “I have more of those than Carters has little pills” or “Lord love a duck.” He noticed everything and forgot nothing. The more he cared for you, the more you were susceptible to his heckling. He loved Mexican food and a good Scotch (Cutty)!

Even though Bill could be stern and sometimes stubborn, his heart was huge and he lived by strong values and principles. He always saw the good in every situation and every person. He believed in giving back and gave generously of his time and resources to the Tucson community which he loved so dearly. He was a deep and intense person, but loved with his whole heart and had a laugh that could fill the room with joy. Bill will be missed terribly by all those fortunate enough to have known him.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Rotary District 5500 Foundation or to the TMC Hospice-Peppi’s House would be appreciated.

http://rotaryd5500.org/SitePage/district-5500-foundation

https://www.tmcaz.com/inpatient-hospice-peppis-house