A devoted husband to Lois Hansen, he built a life rooted in love, hard work, and steady devotion. Through his work in real estate, he understood that the strongest homes are built on care, commitment, and time—and that is exactly what he gave to his family. As a father, brother, son, and proud “Poppy,” he was the kind of man who showed up—reliably and without hesitation—like an engine that never failed to turn over when needed most.
Born to Einar and Agneta Hansen, he carried forward the values they instilled in him: resilience, humility, and a strong work ethic. As a farmer, he understood life’s seasons better than most—when to plant, when to wait, and when to harvest the blessings around him. He knew that, much like building something lasting in both farming and real estate, the best things in life take patience, strong roots, and a solid foundation.
Herb is preceded in death by his parents, Einar and Agneta; brother Harold Hansen; sister Anna Mae Litzler; father-in-law Jack Campbell; brothers-in-law Bob Litzler, Bobby Trigueiro, Kendal Elder, Tom DeFreitas and sister-in-law Sharon Hansen.
He had a lifelong love for cars—not just for how they looked, but for how they felt: the freedom of the open road, the satisfaction of a well-running engine, and the joy of sharing the journey with others. That passion reflected how he lived—steady, dependable, and always ready to take the scenic route if it meant more time with the people he loved.
He leaves behind a legacy that stretches far beyond miles traveled and the many lives he touched through his work. His wife of 42 years—Lois Hansen. His children—Brandon and Kristi Smith, Bret and Letty Hansen, Lisa and Victor Bianchi, Rodney and Jeromie Hansen—carry forward his strength and spirit. His grandchildren—Ashton, Gavan, Madison, Julien, Lola, Nicole, Adrian, Erick, Cecilia, Aaron, Paris, and Gage—were his pride and joy, each one a bright light in his life’s journey. His great-grandchildren—Ava, Fiona, Adam, Little Erick, and Evan—were the newest passengers in the ever-growing convoy of his family.
Herb leaves behind a brother Herluf Hansen; sisters Carolyn Hansen and Betty Eskes; brother-in-law Don Eskes. Along with many nieces and nephews.
He taught those around him that life isn’t about how fast you go, but who you take along for the ride—and that the most meaningful things we build are the people and places we hold close. Through every twist, turn, and long stretch of road, he remained grounded, kind, and full of quiet strength.
Though he has reached the end of his earthly road, the home he built in the hearts of those who knew him will never fade. His love continues to travel on, and his memory will forever be a guiding light—like headlights cutting through the dark—leading his family forward.
Visitation will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns, and Blair Funeral Home on Monday, April 6th, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
A Memorial Service to honor our beloved Herb, will take place at Caruthers District Fairgrounds on April 7th, 2026 at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Herb’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
