David earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, laying the foundation for a lifelong interest in people, cultures, and the stories that shape our lives. Following graduation, he joined the Peace Corps, an experience that allowed him to travel extensively and broaden his understanding of the world. His time abroad included service in India and Afghanistan, along with visits to Greece and many other European destinations. These formative experiences helped shape the well-rounded, personable, and engaging man he would become.
After his time with the Peace Corps, David built a successful career in men's custom tailoring. He managed The Custom Shop in Houston's Galleria for 30 years before spending the latter part of his career as the primary sales associate at The Village Clothier. Through his dedication to his craft, David helped countless clients look and feel their best. He was known not only for his expertise and attention to detail, but also for his warm personality, easy conversation, and genuine ability to make others feel welcome.
Outside of work, David found great enjoyment in gardening and caring for his plants. His love of gardening reflected his patience, attentiveness, and appreciation for the quiet beauty found in everyday life.
David will be remembered most for his outgoing spirit and remarkable gift for connecting with people. He never met a stranger and delighted in sharing stories of his travels and adventures, drawing others in with warmth, humor, and sincere interest. His love for his family, extended family, and friends remained constant throughout his life, and he leaves behind many cherished memories that will continue to bring comfort to those who knew and loved him.
David was preceded in death by his father, Theodore A. Hanson; his mother, Eileen B. Hanson; his brother, Roger E. Hanson; and his son, Evans A. Hanson.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sylvia A. Hanson; his daughter-in-law, Jamie P. Hanson; his stepson, Robert A. Trevino (Carrie L. Trevino); his granddaughters, Janice E. Hanson, Alexandria M. Hanson, and Kirsten N. Neiman (Jordan Neiman); his grandsons, Robert A. Trevino, Christopher J. Trevino, and Jonathan J. Trevino; and his great-grandsons, Marshall E. Neiman, Declan R. Neiman, and Finley S. Neiman.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, neighbors, and loved ones who shared in David's life and enriched it with their companionship. David's warmth, kindness, and adventurous spirit will be remembered always.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to support pancreatic cancer research at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Donations may be made at https://www.mdanderson.org/donate.
Contributions made in David's memory will help advance research and treatment efforts in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
