Lonnie Hansen

Lonnie Gail Hansen of Cypress, California, passed away after a courageous five-year battle with pancreatic cancer on July 14, 2024. Born on March 29, 1942, he was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandfather.

Lonnie was born into a hard-working family and raised in Niles, MI, along with his 11 siblings. He learned the value of hard work at an early age, delivering newspapers in the harsh Michigan winters, shoveling coal, and helping his father maintain his trucks. Despite his many responsibilities at home, he excelled in school, earning the honor of valedictorian from Niles High School and later graduating from University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering.

Lonnie's aspirations in aerospace took him to California, where he began working for North American Aviation. It was there that he met his future wife, Dixie Jean Hansen, who was employed as a secretary in the engineering group. Together, they raised their four children—Lonnie Jr., Rob, Alicia, and Brian—in Cypress, California. Though he settled in Southern California, he never lost his love for his small hometown of Niles. Nearly every summer, he would load up his family and make the trek across the country to visit his extensive family back east. Lonnie cherished these visits, spending time with his mom, siblings, many nieces and nephews, playing cards, enjoying potluck picnics, and reminiscing about their childhood, which always provided endless comedic entertainment to all within earshot (the Hansens were known for being LOUD).

Outside of work, Lonnie found his peace on the golf course, in his garage, wood working on numerous fine detailed projects, and when he had enough peace he turned on the TV and watched his beloved Cleveland Indians frustrate him year after year. He always demonstrated strong resolve in the face of life's challenges, especially after Dixie lost her battle with breast cancer in 1997.

Lonnie concluded his distinguished career in 2000, retiring from Rockwell/Boeing as the Chief Engineer of the B-1B Bomber program. Shortly after his retirement, he found love again with Sharon Hansen. They were married in 2003 and spent their years together golfing, traveling the world, making frequent trips to Hawaii, visiting their favorite restaurants, and spending time with family.

Lonnie's strength was evident during the final years of his life as he bravely fought stage 4 pancreatic cancer, extending a typical six-month prognosis into five years filled with precious memories. He is survived by his wife Sharon, his children Lonnie Jr., Rob, Alicia, Brian, and his many grandchildren.

Dress Code for the funeral service on Tuesday is Hawaiian/Resort.