Hershal “Red” Hansen

Herschel Arthur Hansen, 84, Raytown, MO, passed away December 4, 2004, at home with his family present. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m., Tuesday, December 7, 2004, at Heartland Cremation & Burial Society. Friends may call 1-2 p.m., Tuesday, at the funeral home. Burial in Forrest Lawn Cemetery, Houston, TX. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge United Methodist Church. Herschel was born to Harold and Anna Hansen on May 26, 1920, in Sioux City, IA. Herschel was married to Avera Bell Watts on June 2, 1943. This year they celebrated 61 years of love and family. Herschel was preceded in death by his parents; eldest son, Howard; and brother, Allison. He is survived by his wife, Avera; daughter, Carol Kitchens, Louisville, KY; sons Thomas Hansen, Springfield, MO, Terry Hansen; Havre, MT; daughter, Patricia Jesseph, Belton, MO; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers and sisters. Herschel served his country as a bomber pilot in the 11th Air Force, 21st Bombardment Squardron during WWII. He flew 13 combat missions and many photo reconnaissance missions over Japanese held islands and Japan. In 1949, Herschel graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. In 1970, he began work with OSHA in Kansas City, MO, where he retired in 1983. He was a member of Blue Ridge United Methodist Church for 33 years, The American Society of Safety Engineer, having served as president, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Silver Streaks of Raytown. Herschel was a devoted Christian and family man. He always showed his love and took great pride in his family. He enjoyed visits from his children and grandchildren, but was happiest when the great love of his life, Avera Bell, was by his side. Herschel will be missed by his family and all that knew him