Gert Hansen

Gert H. Hansen

1942 - 2010

"Dad, you may have thought we didn't see, Or that we hadn't heard, Life lessons that you taught us, but we heard each and every word.

Perhaps you thought we missed it all, and that we'd all grow apart, But Dad, we picked up everything, it's all written on our hearts.

Without you, Dad, we wouldn't be the Men we are today; you built a strong foundation for us, no one can ever take away.

We've grown up with your values, and I'm very glad we did; so here's to you, dear father, we will love you and will forever miss you, from your grateful sons."

Gert Hakon Hansen, 67, a resident of Utah for 45 years died Tuesday morning at his home in Magna, Utah.  Gert was born on June 17, 1942 in Copenhagen, Denmark to his parents Henrik Hakon Hansen (1898-1985) and Hildegard Hahn Eneveldsen (1903-1989).

He spoke five languages: Danish, German, Swedish, Norwegian, and English.

His musical interests began early and he played rhythm guitar in the band "Red River Boys" that recorded a record.

He served in the Royal Danish Army distinctively for four years, earning numerous awards and decorations.  He traveled extensively during this time to Rome, France, Germany, Sweden, and elsewhere.

He moved to Salt Lake City, Utah in 1965, where he met and married Betty Lou Keryte of the Pueblo of Isleta, NM.  Together they had three sons Henrik, Hakon, and Erik. They divorced after six years, where upon Gert raised his three sons on his own, imparting his knowledge and values of both Pueblo of Isleta Indian and Danish heritage to his children.

Gert's hobbies included entertaining his friends and family with his fond appreciation of music and gardening.  Gert was known for his compassion, generosity and hospitality to others.  He didn't care if the person had two pennies to rub together or a full bill fold.  He was always willing to help all those in need.

During his career he assisted in making the modified parts needed for NASA space shuttle rocket boosters.  He retired in 2007 as an exceptional machinist, tool and die maker of 49 years.

He is survived by his three sons, Henrik Gert Hansen Isleta, NM; Hakon Hahn Hansen Rockville, MD; Erik Dana Hansen SLC, UT; Daughter Michelle Keryte (Hansen).  Granddaughters: Tess Mendoza of Phoenix, AZ; Averi Justine Hansen of the Pueblo of Isleta, NM; Savannah Marie Craig of SLC, UT. Grandsons: Hakon Jordan Hansen of SLC, UT; Drake Henrik Hansen of the Pueblo of Isleta, NM.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters.

Private services and private interment.  Online condolences: www.peelfuneralhome.com