Merlin Gene Hansen

In Loving Memory of Merlin “Mert” Gene Hansen.  Cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.   Merlin “Mert”, passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024 surrounded by those who loved him deeply.

Born on December 29, 1939, in Mitchell, Nebraska to Victory and Mary Hansen, Merlin brought immense joy and love to his family and friends throughout his 84 years.  Living on multiple farms, his family packed up and left Nebraska in 1951 to move to Berryville, Arkansas.  Starting there in the sixth grade, he attended Berryville School until he graduated in 1958.  That same year he met the love of his life, Helen (Davis) Hansen.  They were united in marriage on January 24, 1960, in Galt, Missouri.  They had two children from their union, Deborah Jean (Hansen) Carter and Randall Gene Hansen.  She preceded him in death.

Finding his way to Trenton, Missouri, Merlin worked for Adams Dairy until his position was no longer available.  He then worked for Missouri Public Service, where he was transferred to Lexington, Missouri.  Eventually he would retire from there after 33 years of service.

He was a beacon of strength, wisdom, and kindness, making an indelible impact on all fortunate to know him.  He was a member of the Century Society for donating blood, during the pandemic he helped with Meals on Wheels, as well as served several different community organizations over the years.  However, in his own words, “My greatest pleasures in life were my marriage to my wife, Helen, which lasted over 57 years, and the daughter and son we raised together.”

Merlin will be remembered for his generosity to the community.  He enjoyed participating in car shows, earning him numerous trophies for his beloved 1955 Chevy Bel-Air.  In 2022 he was Grand Marshall of the community fair parade and genuinely enjoyed participating in the parades, creating countless memories that will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

Merlin is survived by his brother, Dwaine Hansen of Richardson, Texas, and a sister, Mary Lou Sell of Mitchell, Nebraska.  He is also survived by his children, Deborah (Bob) Carter of Richmond, Missouri and Randall (Beth) Hansen of Lexington, Missouri; his grandchildren, Anthony (Katie) Carter, and their children, Charleigh and Evalynn of Grain Valley, Missouri, Corissa (Jake) Hayward, and their children, Allie, Mason and Addison of Boonville, Missouri, Claudia (Kaitlin) Duckworth, and their child Slater of Liberty Hill, Texas, Nick (Jana) Koehler, and their children Makenna, Makenzy and Makaelyn of Liberty, Missouri, and Hayley (Michael) Shinneman and their child, Emmett of Liberty, Missouri.  The family also includes numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Mary Hansen, and his two brothers, Donald Hansen and Leslie Hansen.  His loss is deeply felt and will be forever cherished by those whose lives were touched by him.

A celebration of life will be held and will be announced later.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donation be made to the Lexington First Baptist Church or the American Cancer Society in memory of Merlin Gene Hansen.  Your support will help continue his spirit of generosity and compassion.

Rest in peace Merlin, you are profoundly missed, and your legacy will live on through the love and memories you bestowed upon us.