Mary B. Hansen

Mary B. Hansen, age 87, died peacefully in Austin, Texas on March, 19, 2015.

She lived a wonderful life, full of travel and adventure. A fifth generation Texan, Mary was born December 14, 1927 in Strawn, Texas to Lenson and Leelia Bethel. She didn’t stay put for long. Her father’s careers as a Colonel in the US Army and revenue agent for the Government Accounting Office led the family to move every 2 years or so throughout the US. She graduated with an RN degree from Southern Methodist University in 1948.

Mary met her soul-mate and life love, Ray Hansen, a West Point cadet, when his plane stopped for an emergency landing at Fort Sam Houston, in San Antonio, Texas en route to the West Coast. Her childhood prepared her well for the travel filled life she and Ray enjoyed during his long career in the Army Corps of Engineers.

Married almost 60 years, Mary and Ray retired in the Pacific Northwest travelling extensively — mostly to explore their special love, European megalith sites. Mary moved to Austin, Texas two years ago to be closer to family after her husband passed away.

Mary had a particular fondness for classic movies, operas and reading. She delighted in her reputation as a quick witted contrarian and was particularly proud of the resilience, independence and adaptability she passed on to her nine children.

She is survived by her children: Mary Reeves, Fulshear, TX; Nancy Bray, Philadelphia, PA; Tom Hansen, Houston, TX; Bill Hansen, Medina, OH; Kay Littler, Denton, TX; Doug Hansen, Austin, TX; Keith Hansen, Ellsworth, ME; Paul Hansen, Puyallup, WA; many grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Ray, son Steve, and her beloved dog Corey.