Russell D. Hannan Jr.

Russell Dale Hannan Jr. of Thornton passed away on Sunday, February 5, 2012 at the age of 87. He is survived by his wife, Doisay Hannan; his children, Gary (Billie Jo) Hannan, Dale Marie (Clyde) Engels, Keith (Debbie) Hannan, stepdaughter Claudia

Deichmann; brothers: James (Lottie) Hannan and Billy Dean Hannan. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Russell was preceded in death by parents Russell Sr. and Evelyn Hannan also sister JeanDegan.

Russell was born on September 20, 1924 to Russell Sr. and Evelyn Hannan in Smith Center Kansas. After his graduation from Mankato High School in 1942 he and his family moved to Colorado where Russell attended school for Civil Engineering, until

being inducted into the Army on July 30, 1943, serving until his discharge on February 13, 1946. During his tour of duty he was stationed in New Orleans where he met and married Doisay on July 24, 1945. Upon his discharge from the Army, he and Doisay settled in Colorado until 1949 when they moved to New Orleans. Russell managed many service stations while in New Orleans. Then in 1960 Russell and Doisay moved their family to Colorado where Russell worked for the Martin Company. Russell left Martin Company and began managing service stations and delivering propane until 1967 when he began

working for Salt Creek Freightways as a truck driver and dock worker until his retirement in 1986. After his retirement from Salt Creek he again worked in service stations. Then in 1994 he became a door greeter for K-Mart, a position he enjoyed until he decided to retire for good.

First and foremost were his love and commitment for Doisay and not just marital commitment. He was committed to making her happy. They were married for 66 years and during his last days, his only concern was for Doisay's well being and not his own. When asked how he was, he would always answer “I’m Fine”. Russell loved being a father, grandpa and Big Papa as his great grandchildren called him. He enjoyed his visits from family and especially the little ones; they really made his day and put a big smile on his face.

Russell enjoyed camping, fishing, bowling, playing cards with family and friends. He also enjoyed watching sports on TV with Rockies baseball being his favorite. He and Doisay especially enjoyed going to the Club on Wednesdays for dancing and lunch. They both volunteered to help serve and clean up after the lunch. Russell kept himself busy by working on the roses he and Doisay had in their yard. He also enjoyed tinkering around the house which he referred to as “Piddling”. Russell and Doisay spent a lot of time in their motor home traveling to see family in Louisiana, Arizona and Alabama. Russell was a real people person he loved people and could sit and visit with anyone about anything.

Russell will be missed by all who have had the pleasure to have loved and known him during his 87 years on this earth.

A celebration of Dodie's life will be at 1:00pm on Sat. Dec. 8, 2012 at Olinger Crown Hill Chapel of Peace. The placement of her urn, along with Russell's, will conclude the services. Russel's military service will be recognized with military honors.