James Hanson Obituary

James "Jim" Arnold Hanson
September 12, 1940 - July 21, 2025
In Loving Memory of Jim Hanson a Devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, and Mentor.
With deep love and profound loss, we announce the passing of Jim Hanson, who transitioned to his new residence at the age of 84. A man of character, commitment and deep compassion, Jim lived a life defined by dedication to his family, friends, community and his country.
Born in Green Valley Township, Minnesota in 1940, Jim moved to El Dorado County, California at a young age and that was the beginning of a life rooted in hard work, resilience, and a deep commitment to serving others.
At just 21 years old, he joined the Coast Guard and was stationed in the San Francisco Bay Area from 1961-1965, where he would meet his wife Elaine. After leaving the military he became a Metal Fabricator (37 years), a Reserve Police Officer for Linn County, OR and the town of Jefferson, OR (20 years) where he would climb the ranks to Lieutenant. His leadership to this small town would land him a number of awards, including "Oregon Person" of the year in 1985, from Blue Cross of Oregon. At the end of his career, he would discover his calling of being a Para-educator to children and youth of all disabilities. His remarkable careers are a testament to his courage, discipline, and unwavering sense of duty.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years Elaine Hanson, brother Jerry Hanson, sister Candy Johnson, son Jeff and his wife Teresa Slaughter, son Jim and his wife Beth Hanson and daughter Danielle McIntosh. He had six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren and lots of nieces and nephews. Family was always the heart of Jim's world. He cherished every gathering, large or small, and was a steady presence of wisdom and encouragement.
Jim found great joy in life's simple pleasures-fishing, hunting, riding motorcycles, writing, drinking coffee and spending time with his loved ones. Many will remember the warmth of his smile, or the peaceful moments spent with him in quiet conversation. He shared his passions freely, teaching others with humility, and joy.
Jim's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched-as a leader, police officer, mentor, friend, and most deeply, as a beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and the lives of more than 500 children he and Elaine fostered. A man of quiet generosity, Jim gave often and without fanfare-offering his time, money, skills, and heart to anyone in need. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a steady presence, he left an indelible mark on the lives of those around him. His strength, generosity and selflessness will be remembered always.
He will be deeply missed. Since his passing, we often find ourselves remembering the words he shared with everyone as they were leaving or ending a phone call, "Love you, Bye and Bye." And to that, we say with a smile, "until we meet again!" and his final words were most always, "Glad you got to see me."