Michael Hansen

Michael John Hansen, age 70, passed away April 9, 2021 after a valiant 8-year battle with lung cancer, surrounded by his five children and his loving wife of almost 48 years. Mike’s greatest joy was found in his family and in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Mike was born August 16, 1950, in Palo Alto, California to Terrence and Glenna Hansen. He served a faithful mission to Spain and would spend the remainder of his life teaching the gospel in the Spanish language. While in Spain, he met a sister missionary who would become his best friend and eternal companion. He married Kristine Hicken on June 14, 1973 in the Provo Utah Temple. They loved each other dearly and served each other daily. Mike drove Kris to work every day during her nursing career and was her biggest support in life. The love Kris had for Mike was never more evident than in the last months of his life when she cared for him tirelessly. They truly exemplified Christ-like love for each other.

A steadfast member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mike served faithfully in many leadership responsibilities in the Church, including Stake President, Bishop, Young Men’s President, Primary teacher, and many years in various bishoprics. He especially loved the Latino community after having spent his teen years living in Guatemala. He served the Union Fort 10th Spanish Ward  (“el barrio verdadero”) faithfully for many years and loved the people with all his heart.

Mike was known for his sense of humor and teasing nature. His positivity and optimism were contagious. He had the incredible ability to make others feel special and loved, gaining him countless lifelong friends. His countenance and character left an indelible mark on many.

He will be dearly missed by his wife, Kris, and their children: Jennifer, Greg (Amanda), Elisa Hoffman (Dave), Ashli, and Melanie. His grandchildren—Ben, Jonny, Katie, Bryce, Jake, Sophie, and Kenzie—will remember him as their biggest fan and most ardent supporter. He is reunited in death with his sweet granddaughter Maddie Mae, his parents, and father-in-law, Jerrol Hicken. He leaves behind many friends and a lifelong legacy of faith in Jesus Christ and a determination to follow God’s will for him, no matter what the cost. We rejoice in the knowledge that Dad can truly at last proclaim, “It is well with my soul.”

Viewings will be held on Thursday, April 15 from 6:30-8:30pm and Friday, April 16 from 9:00-10:30am. A funeral service will follow on Friday at 11:00am, and will also be live-streamed at the URL below.  All services will be held at the Union Fort Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 7155 S 540 E, Midvale, UT 84047. Masks are required for all in-person attendees. Look for the "camera button" under the Funeral Service information to access the live stream of the service.