Gary Lee Hansen

HANSEN, Gary Lee, age 71, of Centerville, OH, formerly of Detroit, MI, passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025.

Gary was born on January 28, 1954, in Detroit, MI, to the late Buzz and Mary Hansen. He grew up in the Detroit area and while attending Redford Union High School (Class of ‘71) met his future wife, Nancy, while participating in the Junior Achievement program. They married in 1974 and built a life together filled with love and laughter.

Gary and Nancy raised three children—Katie (1981), Ben (1987), and Kyle (1992). He was a devoted father who truly loved all his children equally; Katie was his favorite daughter, Ben was his favorite eldest son and Kyle was his favorite youngest son.

He graduated magna cum laude from Eastern Michigan University with a B.S. in Education—Chemistry and Math, then began teaching at Bishop Borgess High School in 1975. In 1977, he joined IBM as a systems engineer, working diligently throughout a 32-year career. In 1989, IBM transferred the family to Dayton, OH—a move that would become permanent. After retiring from IBM in 2009, Gary renewed his teaching license and his passion for education. This included math instructor positions at ISUS Institutes, Sinclair College, Archbishop Alter High School, Mathnasium, and substitute teaching in Centerville schools.

Nothing gave him greater pleasure than what he called “the greatest gig ever”, caring for his grandson, Wesley, and granddaughter, Sidney. When Katie and Brad’s son Wesley was born, Gary stopped working full-time and watched him 3 days a week, later adding Sidney, and eventually watching them all week for 18 months during COVID. They were so proud to introduce their friends to Grandpa when they got a little older and he occasionally worked at their school.

Gary was a dedicated community servant. While in Redford, he was very active in the Redford Jaycees, eventually becoming President. He received the Martin P. Luthy Award recognizing him as one of the top 10 outstanding presidents in the Michigan Jaycees. After moving to Centerville, Gary grew his community of friends and continued giving generously of his time. He was active as a member of Dunsinane Swim Club, and always willing to volunteer with band, hockey, and theater when his kids were participating. He joined the Centerville Noon Optimist Club in 1999 and served as a committee chair, Board member, Vice President, and President from 2021–2022. He served on the Board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and volunteered with the American Cancer Society. In his time with JDRF, Gary travelled to Death Valley to participate in the Century Ride fundraisers.

Gary loved planning and hosting epic Fourth of July celebrations. For over a week, the house would be filled with relatives—overflowing with laughter, stories, and love. These festivities culminated in a Saturday party with rotisserie meats, fierce water fights, and karaoke that lasted well into the night. Gary could be seen sporting head-to-toe stars and stripes and encouraged all others to do the same.

In 2012, Gary and Nancy realized their dream of buying a lake house in Michigan. 4th of July parties moved North, and they spent many summer weekends relaxing with a view of the water and a boat ride for ice cream.

If you were someone Gary cared about, he loved to show up for you. From late-night band concerts, early morning hockey games and opening night theater performances, to graduations, fundraisers, or any other event, he was there to make people feel seen and supported.

As an avid sports fan, he enjoyed rooting for the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings, the Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans. Annual trips to NASCAR races with close friends and family became a summertime priority.

Among his many hobbies were pub trivia nights, card games, and SO MANY PUZZLES. When he really needed to relax, he turned to golf and bowling. He participated in bowling leagues with family and friends over the years. His golf games throughout the year helped him prepare for his two favorite fall golf trips: The Old Guys Golf Outing in Northern Michigan and the Manhattan Open in Myrtle Beach. Late in life, when asked what brought him comfort, he mentioned golf and bowling.

Gary’s selflessness, kind spirit, and event planning expertise will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Buzz and Mary Hansen.

Gary is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nancy; children Katie (Brad), Ben (Stacie), and Kyle (Maggie); grandchildren Wesley and Sidney; siblings Martin (Pat), Al, Arlene (Kevin), and Sharon (Brad); and numerous extended family and friends.

A visitation will be held from 12-4pm on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 E. Stroop Rd. Kettering, OH 45429, with a memorial service to follow. A live stream will be available via Routsong’s YouTube channel for those unable to attend in person. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Matthew Gumbel ‘91 Scholarship (https://www.uofdjesuit.org/giving/matthew-gumbel-91-scholarship), Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or your favorite charity.

Gary would love for people to be comfortable while celebrating him, feel free to wear something that makes you think of him (4th of July attire, Michigan sports gear, etc.)