Thomas Louis Hanson

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Thomas "Tom" Hanson, beloved husband, father, brother, son and friend. Tom passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on January 16, 2025. Tom was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on October 31, 1939, to Wilfred Hanson and Alice Peterson, and an older brother to Ron Hanson. After the passing of his father, Tom’s mother remarried Edward Burrma, who lovingly helped raise Tom, Ron, and their step-sister Anne.

Tom was a proud graduate of Michigan Tech where he received his degree in Civil Engineering in 1963. After graduation, Tom was hired by the State of California Department of Water Resources and moved to Sacramento that same year. He went on to have a successful and fulfilling career with the Department of Water Resources, where he retired in 2000 after almost 38 years of dedicated service.

Tom was a devoted husband to his wife, Randi Hanson, with whom he shared a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure for 46 years. Together, they raised two daughters, Dana Zahniser (Terry) and Denise Zweig (David). Tom cherished his role as a father and was always very patient, loving and dedicated. Tom's legacy lives on in his three adoring grandchildren: Ben, Lilah, and Noah, each of whom brought him great joy. His love for his family, especially watching Ben play high school football, was a source of immense pride.

Tom was an avid sports fan, a love that began as a child going to the University of Michigan football games. His love for sports continued to grow and he played baseball and ran track in high school. Tom was also a Boy Scout and loved to fish with his family. Locally, he enjoyed going to games to watch his favorite sports teams which included the San Francisco 49ers, Sacramento Kings and the Oakland A’s.

He was also an avid golfer and fisherman, and enjoyed exploring new places with family and friends. Tom was a true gentleman—his easy smile, gentle spirit, and kind soul were reminiscent of the timeless charm of Jimmy Stewart. He embodied the qualities of a quintessential Midwesterner: humility, integrity, and an unwavering sense of kindness for everyone he encountered.

Above all, Tom was a loving, strong, resilient, and patient man. Whether as a son, brother, husband, father, or friend, he set the bar high for what it meant to be a gentleman. His thoughtful, kind nature and his enduring love for those around him will never be forgotten.

Tom will be deeply missed but forever loved in our hearts. His memory will live on in the lives of those who had the privilege to know him.

A private family service will be held to honor Tom’s life.