HANSEN
Melvin Samuel
June 18, 1928 - May 30, 2018
Melvin Samuel Hansen passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on May 30th, 2018, 19 days before his 90th birthday. Mel was born June 18th, 1928 in Drumheller, AB to Thorvald and Christine Hansen, the fourth of five children. He spent the first eight years of his childhood in the farming community of Dalum. Then the family moved to Munson in 1936 where his parents purchased a section of farmland. This became the future home of his own family after he purchased the farm from his Dad. Mel meet the love of his life, Pearl Minnie Benyk in the spring of 1953 and wedding bells rang August 12th, 1953 at the Knox United Church in Drumheller. They celebrated and cherished 64 years together. Mel loved all aspects of farming, including milking cows, raising hogs, cattle, horses and grain. As well as being a successful farmer he also was an excellent carpenter, welder and electrician. He had a creative talent to fabricate useful objects out of just about anything. When Mel and Pearl decided to stop actively farming in 1975 they pursued quarter horse and thoroughbred racing. His numerous passions of life were the foundations for his own children, especially anything related to horses. This included his roles of farrier, 4-H leader, horse breeder and racehorse owner to name a few. Other interests included skiing, snowmobiling, curling, cribbage and cards, and outdoor activities. Following retirement and their move to High River in 1988, golfing became another source of shared enjoyment. All of these endeavors created long lasting friendships and joy. Mel had a quiet faith of service for others including being a blood donor for many years and lending a helping hand to anyone who needed it. In 2001, they relocated to Three Hills to be closer to their family, which now includes 12 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. His life personified a devoted husband to his surviving wife Pearl, a wonderful father to His son Mark (Penny), and daughters June (Sam) Currie, Terri (Todd) Pitts and Karen Anderson. He was predeceased by Karen’s loving husband Tom, brother Gordon, infant brother, sister Marilyn Parker and her husband Morris, and brother-in-law George Danyluk. He is survived by his 95-year-old sister Levonne Danyluk and numerous extended family members. Mel will be celebrated, missed, and remembered by all who knew him. His peace came from knowing his Heavenly Father and the anticipation of being reunited with the rest of his family one day. His Celebration of Life will be held at the Knox United Church in Three Hills, Thursday, June 7th at 11:00am. Lunch will follow at the Three Hills Community Center. A private family interment will follow after the luncheon at the Munson Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Mel’s charities of choice: The Alberta Children’s Hospital or STARS.
