Verne William Hanson walked into the arms of our Lord on monday, March 25th, 2024 at the age of 68.
He was born on February 22nd, 1956 to Joan Marie Hanson and Victor William Hanson in Burnaby BC.
Verne grew up in his family home overlooking the ocean in North Burnaby. Brother to Vickie, Joy-Anne, and Jerry, they enjoyed their visits to Lake Errock staying at the family cottage, ice skating, swimming and cliff jumping.
Verne was industrious from a young age, and worked hard to start a life for himself. His height was an advantage for getting hired, as few people questioned his age. He worked several jobs before being hired as an apprentice for BC Hydro where he worked for over 40 years.
He met his wife Kerry in 1981 and became an instant Dad to her 7 year old son, David. They were married in 1984 for almost 40 years (as of July 14th, 2024). In 1989 they welcomed a daughter, Chelsey, followed by son, Chad in 1993. Their son Sanjay (born 1995) joined the family in 2003 from Paramaribo, Suriname.
Verne was a man to be respected and admired. His 6' 4" height and trademark horseshoe moustache made his presence known, but it was his strength of character for which he was loved. His faith in God was evident by action not words, and his sacrificial devotion to his family carried them all. His friends knew him as a quiet spirit, kind and generous. He could lighten any room with his keen humour, and though rarely the first suspect, was known amongst his comrades for his abundance of pranks that kept everyone from taking a hard day too seriously. In 2020 he became a deacon for their church family at the Free Presbyterian Church in Cloverdale until his passing.
Despite a new hip and little intent of retirement, it became required of him due to his faultering health with Diabetes and Parkinson's by the end of 2022. His wife stayed alongside his every need until a somewhat sudden passing.
Verne is survived by his wife; Kerry Hanson, Son David; daughter Chelsey (Son-in-Law Kevin); Sons: Chad & Sanjay; his Sisters Vicki (Brother-in-law Russ) and Joy-Anne ( Brother-in-law Andre); Grandchildren: Lydia, Lucius, Tirzah; Nieces and Nephews: Shawn, Bryan, Tim, Amy, Chris, Quinn, Sonia, Alonzo, Jamie, Noah.
He is predeceased by his Parents; Victor and Joan Hanson; his brother: Jerry Hanson; his daughter: Emily Grace Hanson.
Verne's memorial service:
Friday, April 5th, at 6:30 pm.
Followed by refreshments.
At The Free Presbyterian Church in Cloverdale
18790 58th Avenue, Surrey
Susan and I are very sorry for your loss. We remember many good times in Port Hardy. Verne was a great man and a good friend.