William Dean Hanson was born on June 8, 1953, to Blayne and Beulah Hanson. He passed away on April 11, 2024, at the age of 70.  William (Bill) will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, boundless joy, and infectious enthusiasm for life. His legacy of love and dedication will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.  Bill was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington.  Bill was named after his grandfather, William D. Hanson, who owned the first electric mill in Tacoma.

Bill went to Horace Mann and Seward Elementary Schools where he made many lifelong friends.  He also went to Stewart Junior High and Lincoln High School.  After graduation, he went to Green River Community College.  Bill liked to joke that he majored in Baseball and minored in Parties.

Bill married his high school sweetheart, Andi Lynn Kendall on August 8, 1975.  They raised their three children: oldest daughter, Laurin Kay, younger daughter, Merrill Lee, and only son, William Jr. His children gave him strength and he liked to return the love by sending unexpected text messages.  Bill was also blessed with a grandson, Dexter Dean Dugaw.  The two share the same middle name along with Uncle Will.  Bill loved his family and liked to tease them and give them good squeezie hugs.

Bill was an athlete and had a very competitive nature.  He would not allow his children to win when he played games with them.  They had to beat him with their own talent and wits.  As a young man, Bill was always active playing baseball, softball, basketball, golf, umpiring or refereeing.  He also loved hunting, fishing, and camping.  Our family was blessed to share many fond hunting and camping memories with the Keister family.

Bill worked for Pierce County most of his life and retired after 30 years of service with Pierce County Public Works.  Bill would have worked longer, but his heart disease changed his life path.  He had his first heart attack at the age of 40.  We witnessed many miracles; Bill was like the Energizer Bunny.  God allowed us to enjoy him for 30 more years than his cardiologists predicted.  As Bill's health declined, so did his activity level.  He became quite the gardener and a dear friend to the many hummingbirds that frequented his bird feeders.  Bill also had an occasional dancing fairy stop  by to bring some cheer.

Bill was a joyful man and loved caring for his neighbors.  He mowed lawns, swept streets and was always willing to lend a hand and tell a story.  He enjoyed saying, "Hello" to the children in the neighborhood, who liked to call him, "Mr. Bill."  He was fondly referred to as, "The Mayor of Pine Street."  He had a voice that was easily identifiable by all who knew him, even the dogs in the neighborhood.  Bill would always carry dog treats in his pockets and had a special bond with dogs who stopped by for some love.

Bill was a man of God, who strived to live what he believed. He was a man who never complained about his years of longsuffering, but rather rejoiced and Praised God for His love and care.  He read his Bible twice a day and believed in the power of prayer.  Bill was thankful for the many prayer warriors, and his departure came as quite a shock felt by his family and countless others who loved him as well.

Bill is survived by his loving wife Andi of 48 years; daughter Laurin and her husband John Nitz; daughter Merrill and her husband Andy Dugaw; and son William Hanson Jr. and his girlfriend Jeni Wang. Last, but not least, one grandson Dexter Dugaw, who put the twinkle in Bill's eye. Bill was predeceased by his father Blayne Hanson, his mother Beulah (Hanson) Rogers, half-sister Joan Hanson, and stepfather Fred Rogers.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 2:00 pm at First Baptist Church of Lakewood, 5400 112th Street SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.  All loved ones are welcome: family, neighbors and friends.