Richard Emanuel Hanson Jr.

Richard Emanuel Hanson Jr., 86, passed away December 25th, in his favorite season. Dick was born in Omaha, NE to Richard Emanuel Hanson, Sr. and Margaret Elsie Hanson on April 27th, 1936. In high school his family moved to Albuquerque, NM. In June 1960 he married Alma Becerra and they were married 62 years. His siblings, Bernece and Norman, and their families were very dear to him throughout his life, as were the members of Almas family. He is survived by his wife Alma, his daughter Kathy, his granddaughter Sophie, and his brother Norman.

Dick earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Washington State University in Pullman, WA in 1963 and a Masters Degree from Iowa State University in Landscape Architecture in 1966. He taught Landscape Architecture at Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and the University of Rhode Island. He was elected Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects in 1997. He had a vast set of skills and interests, from professional accomplishments to flying, sailing, camping, singing in choirs, playing his trombone in a brass ensemble, competing on the Wheel of Fortune, and his never-ending sense of humor and repertoire of jokes. Dick loved the Lord. Dick and Alma attended wonderful churches together. They hosted Flower and Garden Tours to Europe and Scandinavia. He faithfully swam everyday. He had a love of routine combined for his gift of spontaneity and his loyalty to people, teams, schools, etc. that he loved. He was immovable with that loyalty. He had a bright mind and the ability to problem-solve, as well as a love of beauty, natural things, plants and flowers, training others and sharing what he knew with others. Dick lived a full life filled with faith, family, friends, fun, food, love and laughter.

For those wanting to give a memorial gift, the following three are possible suggestions:

Mukilteo Presbyterian Church

Truckers Against Trafficking

Kinney Azalea Gardens, Kingston, RI