Michael Joseph Hanses

Mike Hanses was born in 1942 in Great Falls, Montana. He grew up in Northern Montana (Kalispell... and Hingham on the "Highline"), and often reminisced to his kids about his childhood there. Entering into adulthood, he joined the Navy and spent nine years floating the Pacific, stationed and visiting many places... Alaska, Guam, China, and Vietnam (during the war), among many others. Upon returning home after his service, he took up studying at Montana State, and completed his education and history degree. This would propel him down the teaching career that would define a large portion of his life. He met his wife, Karron (Gustafson), at a church social event shortly after she had moved to Montana from Washington State after completing her nursing degree. Their first child, Ben, was born in Glasgow, Montana. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Spokane, WA where both Suzanne and Joel were born. Moving to the Seattle, Washington metro area where they would live for over the next decade, Mike began teaching at Christ Church Schools (the name changed more than once while he was there) in the North Seattle neighborhood, while attending church there as well. He formed many deep and meaningful relationships during his time there at the school and church. Both with his fellow teachers and church members, but also building fond memories with many of his students. This extended to the family's time in Renton, WA, where Mike principled a school for two years after moving from Seattle. In 1992, the family moved to Zillah, WA, where Mike would continue working as an educator for a few years, before "retiring" from the education field to drive a medical transport vehicle for many years, before finally retiring completely. The care and interest he had developed for his students transfered over to the patients that he would pick up and drive around the state. Here is where he and Karron would make their final home, living just outside of Zillah for the better part of three decades, and building more enduring friendships in a small country church they fell in love with. During this time in Zillah, he would see all three of his children get married and build families of their own. Mike took great pride and joy building life into his 12 grandchildren. For the last few years of his life, his own medical concerns would require him to live in a specialized care facility in Yakima, WA, just to the north of his beloved home. Mike faithfully worshipped his God, devoted his life to his family, and fervently loved his country. "Papa" passed away last July, being cared for by his loving wife, Karron, his grateful children, and adoring grandkids. His last few years were medically difficult, and we are blessed to know he is now freed from his ailments. We know that he rejoices and waits patiently for the day when he has all his family alongside him once again!