Jerry Lee Hansen

Jerry was a man who rarely sat still and never did anything halfway. He was always busy — tinkering, fixing, building, or rebuilding something out in his "barn". If something could be improved, strengthened, or reimagined, Jerry was already halfway through the project. He found joy in working with his hands and took pride in making things last.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Edith Hansen; his brothers, Jimmy Hansen and David Hansen; and his sister, Vicky Rugg. Though he carried the loss of his family members in his heart, he also carried forward their strength, grit, and deep-rooted family loyalty.

Jerry is lovingly survived by his wife, Regina Hansen; his niece, Tonya Hilger; his children, Glenn and Kelly Demeritt, and Sarah and Tim Miller; and Chase Lewis, who he proudly raised from a pup, and who no doubt held a very special place in his life. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, two great-grandsons, and one more great-grandchild on the way — a legacy that would have made him beam with pride.

He loved fishing and hunting, and he especially enjoyed heading down to the river to spend time with the great friends he made there. While others may have been doing the heavy lifting, Jerry was often happily “supervising,” offering commentary, advice, and plenty of humor. As he would often say "Don't worry about the mule, just load the wagon!" Those river days were filled with laughter, storytelling, and the kind of friendships that stand the test of time.

Jerry will also be fondly remembered for the daily pictures of his meals — a tradition that brought smiles to many. He had a particular love for “double yokers,” and he wasn’t shy about showing them off. It was these simple, consistent gestures that reminded everyone he was thinking of them.

He lived life in motion, with a sharp eye, steady hands, and a heart that showed itself in practical ways — through time spent, things built, and traditions shared. He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and all who knew him, but his stories, habits, and well-worn paths will live on in the memories he created. When in serious discussion he would say "You can't go back to a place you've never been."

His life was one of steady work, simple joys, and strong connections — and he will not be forgotten. We will miss the RHINO. (Relax Hansen It's Never Over)

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family ask that you donate to the National Kidney Foundation in his memory, https://www.kidney.org/.