George H. Hanson, age 69, of Stevens Point, died April 7, 2016.

Simply put, George was a remarkable man that everyone could always count on. He was excited to bring the smallest amount of joy to anyone he met. George was happiest spending time with his grandchildren, and was passionate about beekeeping, fishing, baking and stamp collecting. He was well known for his fantastic sense of humor and quick wit.

George was born November 22, 1946 to the late Gordon & Mary (Hoppen) Hanson in Stevens Point. He attended St Stephen’s Grade School and graduated from Pacelli High School in 1965. He attended UWSP receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Business in 1969. George married the former Joanie May on August 22, 1970. He then returned to UWSP, earning his Business Administration degree in 1972. George began his career in Nursing Home Administration, working in the Stevens Point & Colby Area. He transitioned into working for Associated Bank until he retired.

George served two years in the U.S. Army and is a Vietnam Veteran.

George made a tremendous impact in the communities where he resided. In Whitehall, WI, he co-founded the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 45. He was also active on the Trempealeau County Board and Chamber of Commerce. In Stevens Point, he was a member of the City Council, Police and Fire Commission, Economic Development Committee and worked as a greeter at St. Michael’s Hospital in his retirement.

We have lost a wonderful man; a great son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Joanie of Stevens Point whom he greeted each morning with a cup of coffee. He was a rock and anchor to his children, Erin (David) Gregoria of Crystal, MN, Shana (Nathan) Thome of Wausau, Jessica (Daniel) Bowers of Custer, and Colin (Hatty) Hanson of Weston. He was adored by his grandchildren, Jacob, Josie, Alice, Leo, Olivia, Lucy, Andrew, and Evelyn. He is further survived by siblings, Carol (John) Lagerquist of Green Bay, Gordon (Linda) Hanson of AZ, Robert Hanson of Indianapolis, IN. George will be deeply missed by his many friends and large extended family.

George lit up a room and shared his life’s brightness with everyone he met. In this time of darkness, the light in those he loved will help light a path of helping us to live as he lived, to love as he loved, to laugh as he laughed, and to make the world around us a brighter place, just as George did every day.

A Funeral Mass will be held, 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April, 13, 2016 at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church with Rev. Bill Menzel presiding. A time of visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 12 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Boston Funeral Home and also on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will be held in Guardian Angel Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Stevens Point Catholic Schools or Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners.

Online condolences can be made at www.bostonfuneralhome.net.