Leroy Howard Hansen

(June 26, 1918 - October 22, 2009)

U.S. Veteran LeRoy Howard Hansen was born in Oleander, California (on South Ave. by the railroad tracks) on June 26, 1918 to Hans Peter Frederick Hansen and Hannah Petersen Hansen. He passed away on October 22, 2009 at the age of 91.

LeRoy graduated from Selma High School in 1936, (He was captain of the football team), attended Fresno State and USC. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 and was honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant in 1945. On Nov. 20, 1941, he married the love of his life, Donnalee McKenzie. In 1950, and they adopted twin baby daughters, Kay & Kathy.

He was a farmer, and a partner with his father-in-law in Harry McKenzie Trucking Co. He was president of the California Trucking Association and Terry School Board. Proud projects completed included the hauling of road base for the construction of Highway 152 (The Dos Palos Y), the “168 four lane”, construction of the underground garage at the Fresno Co. Courthouse, the Selma High Staley Stadium bleacher mounds and hauling Producers cotton. Amongst his many interests were reading, woodworking, carpentry, cooking, hosting parties, dancing, enjoying their vacation homes at Shaver & later Cambria, traveling (which included 23 cruises) and attending every recital, parade, performance, game, etc. of his daughters and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Donnalee, his parents, his brother Irving, and his sisters Mamie Nielsen, Bert Epps, and Vera Rettie.

LeRoy is survived by his daughter Kay Pucheu & her husband Bill, and their sons Erick and his wife Holly, Brian and Mark, and Kathy Hansen and her daughter Kristen Patterson and her fiancé Gary Madson; and his great granddaughter Anneka Pucheu.

His outgoing personality, ever present humor, love and care for all he met, will be missed by all!

A Graveside Service will be held at the Floral Memorial Park on Thursday, October 29, 2009 at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Memorial Service at the Pella Lutheran Church, 1505 Evergreen St. in Selma at 10:30 a.m.

Remembrances may be sent to Pella Lutheran Church, 1505 Evergreen St. Selma, CA 93662, Bethel Lutheran Home 2208 Dockery Ave. Selma, CA 93662 or the donor’s favorite charity.