Neil Hansen, age 80, of Wolf Point, Montana passed away March 2, 2008 at the Faith Lutheran Home.
Neil was born on September 8, 1927 to Hans J. & Marguerite Hansen. He was the youngest of six children. His parents moved here from Denmark in the early 1900’s and settled in northern McCone County where Neil was born on the homestead. He attended Pleasant Valley School through the eighth grade. He then moved to Antelope, Montana to continue his education.
In 1946 Neil met the love of his life, Verine Long at a country school dance. On September 16, 1946, they were married in Sidney, Montana. “Dad” built a house from lumber from the family saw mill South of Wolf Point. He and Verine raised six children. Over the years Neil worked various jobs and helped build many neighboring homes as well as the Catholic Church in Wolf Point. He was very proud of his registered Angus cattle. After retirement, Neil and Verine enjoyed many winters in Arizona with family and friends. He was best remembered for his musical abilities playing numerous instruments. He had a great love for music. He played for many dances beginning at a young age. He later formed a band, The Valley Ramblers which included his children. They played at many dances throughout northeastern Montana. At one time they were featured on the Fay Crush show which aired on the local network.
Neil was very active in the Elks organization serving as an officer at both the local and state levels. He was honored as the Elk of the year in 1989, acted as the Elks Exalted Ruler and was very active in various community events and organizations. Another thing he was very proud of was helping form the Go-Getters Youth Rodeo. He served as announcer for over 20 years.
Neil is survived by his wife, Verine, of 61 years; sons, Lyle Hansen, Russell Hansen (Linda) of Wolf Point, Marvin Hansen (Bobbi) of Belgrade, daughters, Phyllis Dowse (Stanley) of Wolf Point and Terry Lien (Jim) of Rapid City, South Dakota, sister, Lilly Byxbe of Wolf Point, 18 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son Raymond, sister Edna Kolden, brothers J.R. (Wild Horse), twins, Alf and Eli, three grandchildren, and one great grandson.
Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Services will be held Thursday, March 6, 2008 at 2:00 PM at the First Lutheran Church in Wolf Point with Rev. Greg Holler-Dinsmore officiating. Inurnment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family at csmc@nemontel.net or www.stevensonandsons.com. Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel in Wolf Point has been entrusted with the arrangements.