Larry Earl Hansen, 76

Larry Earl Hansen, 76, passed away suddenly on Sunday, Jan. 23. He was the youngest son of Charles Earl Hansen and Alta Lingel Hansen. He was one of four brothers: Loren Hansen, Marvin Hansen, both deceased and Gordon (Diane) Hansen of New Plymouth, Idaho. Other family includes brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Steve and Karen Skurla of Surprise, Ariz., and stepbrother Jim (Shirley) Pruit of Benton City, Wash.

Larry married his wife, Janice, in 1969. They had two children: Elli Hansen Guy (Tim) and Scott Hansen (Jenny). Five children call him “Grandpa,” Blake, Samantha, Cameron and Fionna Hansen and Charlie Guy.

Larry graduated from Meridian High in 1964 and then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Commercial Art from Boise State College.

Larry and Janice moved from Boise to North Idaho where he worked in art and advertising at several newspapers and Ziggy's Building Supply. In 1994, they bought Horse Trailers Northwest in Post Falls, Idaho. They expanded the business by adding an indoor arena and horse boarding facility. There were always horse activities going on and Larry's passion became cutting. He rejuvenated the Kaniksu Cutting Horse Club and served as president for six years.

Larry had a strong work ethic. He would tackle projects with a “don't quit-till-it's done” attitude. He was lovingly referred to by the family as “Mr Fix-it,” He could be seen driving his loaded 1947 Chevy dump truck that he had helped renovate. If something didn't work right, he would spend hours correcting it.

It was important to Larry that his animals were cared for. In the morning before he had breakfast, he made sure they had food, water and a clean environment.

Larry enjoyed doing watercolor and acrylic paintings. Old barns done in black ink were a specialty of his. He also loved fishing and camping with friends and family, but riding horses was always his greatest pleasure. He also had another love, that of his Savior, Jesus Christ. Late at night or early in the morning you could often find him reading the Bible. He loved getting to know his Savior better and better. Even though he is missed greatly, we are comforted in knowing that the salvation-filled gift from his Lord is complete in his new home.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Contributions in Larry's name can be made to Kootenai County Humane Society.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the final arrangements. Please visit Larry’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at yatesfuneralhomes.com.