Willy Gabriel Hansen

He is now reunited with his Snuskebasse, Connie, who passed May 14, 2022. Dad was born in Odense, Denmark, went to Connie’s 14th birthday and the love story started. We miss you dad but feel blessed that you are reunited again.

Dad, a machinist by trade and theory in music, immigrated to Canada in 1964 with 2 young children. By the 70’s, we were a family of 6. Dad was a jack of all trades, what he didn't know he learned from books in the library. Building his family a beautiful house outside of Fergus from the foundation up while working full-time at Imperial Tobacco.

Dad’s love for music was 2nd to none. Dad played trumpet in a quartet for years in Church, and in later years he played in homes for seniors. Willy just couldn't get enough of sunshine and sailboats. He was always helping and working on boats. The “Wild Hogs” sailboat version kept him busy with his best friends Andy Andersen and John Christiansen sailing boats to and from the south for weeks on end. So many stories have been told over a wee bit of Danish snaps (water) as dad would say. Willy was a longtime tenant at Sunset Villa, Andy and Willy kept things in tip-top shape. Willy served on the board for a number of years and was a member of the “Geritol gang” His love for the Danish Heritage was first. His latest trip back to Denmark in August 2024 was extremely important and amazing getting to visit his childhood home and revisit so many cherished places.

Willy was a devoted father of Thomas (Ange), Anette (Nigel), Alice (John), John (Michele), grandfather to Derrick (Jade), Keith, Kyle (Christine), Kayla (Chris), Tanner (Melissa), Travis (Madyson), Grace. Great grandfather to Lucas, Marceline, Emilia and Chloe. Willy be missed by all friends and extended family, especially his nieces and nephews in Denmark.

May you never lose the wind in your sail's dad!

Thank you to the Eden House (LTC) for all your care and devotion. Thank you to the Guelph General Hospital for your care and support.

Celebration of life will be held at Sunset Villa Dome, 7150 concession 1, Puslinch, ON N0B 2J0 on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 1pm. Donations to the Alzheimer Society would be greatly appreciated by the family. Donations and condolences can be made on Willy’s memorial page at www.gilbertmacintyreandson-hart.com