Henry Leroy Hanson

Aug. 23, 1937-Aug. 30, 2013

Henry, a gentle man affectionately known as “Hank,” of Lakeport, Calif., passed away peacefully at the age of 76.

He was born in Williston, North Dakota, to Melvin and Vivian Hanson in a small farmhouse. A large part of his childhood was spent wheat farming on the multi-generational homestead.

He graduated high school in 1955 then enlisted in the United States Navy. He served as a Communication Technician (CT) with security clearance above Top Secret. He advanced to (CT2) Petty Officer 2nd Class, then received an honorable discharge in 1958. Soon after discharge he left ND to begin a life in California.

He settled in Santa Rosa where he met and married Joyce August, had two daughters and a Pekingese dog named Teling.

During these years he had a love for billiards, participated in competitions and won many trophies. His fondest memory and story he shared proudly was the time he shot pool with “Minnesota Fats,” known and the greatest pool shooter of all time who was inducted into the Pool Hall of Fame.

During the 1970s era he attended many Oakland Raiders spring training camps where he became friends with the Raiders players. To say he was a Raiders fan would be an understatement.

He began a successful flooring business and was well known as one of the best carpet installers as far as the Oregon border. He took pride in his work and the quality was recognized by his reputation.

In 1978 he relocated to Lakeport to begin reducing his workload and enjoy living by the lake he loved so much. During this phase of his life he met Melanie Maner, fell in love and married May 19, 1990, in Reno, Nev. They shared 26 wonderful years together.

One of his passions was bowling, where he and his bowling buddies participated in state and national tournaments, receiving many trophies. In addition, he enjoyed being involved in the Nor Cal boat racing family where he was proud to be an observer for many drivers he called friends.

He devoted his life to his family, his wife, his daughters and his pets he lovingly called his babies. He was called “A Friend” and was loved by all who were lucky enough to have the opportunity to know him.

He is survived by his wife, Melanie, two daughters Shelly Michaels, Chonne and spouse Stanley Kashur; sister, Betty Kretman; brothers, Ralph and Marvin Hanson; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; numerous cousins, nephews and nieces; sister-in-law, Tami and Forrest Stogner; sister-in-law, Nancy Betley; his beloved dog “Huggles” and cat “Little”; as well as many friends.

He is predeceased by his parents Melvin and Vivian Hanson; brothers Alfred and Raymond Hanson; and “Killer,” his dog he called his best friend.

He was dearly loved and will be missed. He will forever remain in our hearts.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Sept. 7, at 1:30 p.m. A potluck reception will follow the service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Chapel of the Lakes Funeral Home, 1625 High St., Lakeport, CA 95453.