Axel Emil Hansen Jr.

May 8, 1923 – September 24, 2018

Buddy was born May 8, 1923 in Atlanta, Georgia. He was the son of Axel Emil Hansen Sr. and Viola Mick Hansen. He was raised in Jacksonville, Florida and attended Robert E. Lee High School. He enlisted in the Army at age 19 on April 23, 1943. He served with the 101st Airborne Division during WW2 and on June 6, 1944 he jumped in the Normandy Invasion and was captured by the German’s 7 days later - spending 9 months in German Prison Camps as a POW. He was liberated by the Russians and walked to Poland where he reunited with the Allied Forces. He later returned home to the United States where he met and married Mary G. Hansen, his wife of over 70 years. After the birth of their twins he was recalled to active duty to serve in the Korean War where he received a Bronze Star and was wounded in Action receiving the Purple Heart. Axel was honorably discharged on August 22, 1951. He then returned to Jacksonville, Florida continuing his employment with General Outdoor Advertising/Neagle Outdoor Advertising until his retirement. He and Mary had two more children following his military service.

Buddy was predeceased by his parents, Axel Sr. and Viola, his eldest son John, his two sisters Evelyn and Geraldine, his brother Clarence, his son-in-law Robert, and his great-great grandson Landon. He is survived by his wife Mary, children Joan, Randy (Theresa), Hans, his granddaughters, Michelle, Kathryn (Omar), Lauren (Aaron), great-grandchildren, Karsen (Cody), Aubri, Blake, Aliana, Chandler, Annalise, Kennedy, and Axel and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 27, 2018 6pm-8pm at Hardage Giddens, 7242 Normandy Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32205. Funeral Services will be held Friday, September 28, 2018 2pm at Hardage Giddens, 7242 Normandy Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32205. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Red Cross or to the church of your choice.