Dick A. Hansen

Richard “Swede” A. Hansen, age 88 of Appleton, WI passed away on November 21, 2024. He was born to Theodore and Eva (Jorgensen) Hansen on May 25, 1936 in Madison, WI. Dick earned his Master’s degree in social work and became a social worker for the Appleton School District for the majority of his working career.

Dick always liked pranking people and keeping everyone on their toes. He was a real storyteller and it was near impossible to figure out which stories were true and which were made up. However, despite every instinct pointing toward the alternative, he actually was a great baseball pitcher when he was a young man and he really could’ve gone pro if he hadn’t injured his arm. With his creative mind, he also liked writing, playing air guitar and impersonating Donald Duck. He treasured his yearly fishing trips with his friends, The “Taggies”; and enjoyed goofing around with them. More than anything else, though, he treasured his family and cherished every moment he spent with his kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids.

Dick will be missed by his children, Julie Hansen, Theodore “TJ” (Diana) Hansen, Jessica “Jess” Turner (Anthony Schmidt), Steffanie Hansen, Bill Nell, Tracey Nell, and Jennifer (Darren) DeBroux; grandchildren, Kristin, Jonathan, Aaron, Jamie, Madison, Alyvia (Kyale), Evelyn, Amir, Akasha, Akeem, Antwan, Tiara, Miya, Taylor, Sydney, and Kalista; great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Jayceon, Emma, Jonah, Annie, Griffin, Amaria, Kayah, and Jaxxson; his sister, Marilynn (Dennis) Steen; and the love of his life, Sandy Kust; as well as many other nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends.

Dick is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Eva; daughter, Jo Lee; and grandson, Brad.

A memorial visitation will be held from 9-11 AM on Friday, December 13, 2024 at Wichmann Tri-County Chapel, 1592 Oneida St, Menasha, WI 54952 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. The family invites you to join them for lunch at noon. Dick will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Appleton, WI following the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Salvation Army in his name.

Dick’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff members at Thedacare Hospital and Edenbrook.