Thomas Huth Hansen

Charlotte - Mr. Hansen, 73, died unexpectedly April 2, 2015, while on vacation in St. Martin with his beloved Nancy, his wife of 49 years. He was born on March 7, 1942 in Brooklyn, New York, a son of the late Borghild and Thorstein Huth Hansen.

After graduating from Fort Hamilton High School in Brooklyn, NY, in 1959, Tom attended Embry-Riddle College, where he received a degree in Aeronautical Mechanics. Tom later served his country flying helicopters in the U.S. Army. After the Army, Mr. Hansen worked for TWA airlines as an aeronautical mechanic at both JFK and LaGuardia airports in New York.

In May of 1965, Tom married Nancy Felker, a young woman who caught his eye 10 years earlier in Junior High. Deciding he wanted to wear a suit to work, Tom left TWA and began working for Wesco as a Textile Sales Technician in 1971. His division was bought by IRO-Memminger in 1987, and at that time he was named President, and moved to Charlotte. In 2007, he retired from Van de Wiele-IRO. Most recently, Tom served as a consultant for Van Guard Pai Lung.

Tom’s quick wit, big heart and impeccable timing brought a smile to all who knew him. He was a devoted husband, father and Papa. Tom loved to travel with his wife, but was most happy working in his yard, and watching his granddaughters swim in his pool.

Mr. Hansen is survived by his wife, Nancy; son, Thomas K. Hansen; daughter, Karen Hansen Stewart, her husband, Chip and their two daughters, Charlotte Rose and Sara Beth; and his sister, Barbara James.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, April 11, 2015 in the Harry & Bryant, “Chapel in the Oaks”, 500 Providence Rd., Charlotte. A reception for family and friends will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics.