Obituary

Manawatu Times, Volume 70, Issue 111, 12 May 1945, Page 6

Obituary

It was with deep regret that the many friends of Mr. Jens Hansen, Carnarvon, heard of his death on April 12, after a short illness. The late Mr. Hansen was born in Denmark on January 23rd, 1870, and was the eldest son of a largo family. In his early

twenties, he came to New Zealand in company with the girl who shortly after became his wife. Ilis early days were spent in the Dannovirke and Weber districts where he took contracts in bushfelling. It was with regret that he saw so many giants of the forests levelled and destroyed. He always loved the bush and its birdlifo and it was always a pleasure for him to recall the early days spent there. After a few years of bushfelling, he bought a small farm in the Kairanga district and it was while he was there that the urge to see his native home and family prompted him to sell. the farm and revisit the land of his birth. In July, 1907, ho set sail for the homeland with his wife and six children, and great was the rejoicing at the reunion of parents, brothers and sisters after an absence of over 15 years. After four years, he again knew that it was easier to make a living in New Zealand, so set out on the return trip in September, 1911. Ho took up a small place in Carnarvon and for many years worked for the Manawatu County Council. Later he and his son Peter, took up farming again. He -always had a keen sense of humour, was a great lover of books and reading and had a keen memory for dates and historical events. His father fought the Germans in 3 864 and his eldest son, Carl Hansen, was killed in the Great War June, 1917, in France. Last year on Januaary 12 Mr. and Mrs. Hansen celebrated their golden wedding when they had the pleasure of having all their chiidren with them and about 100 guests who came to honour the esteemed couple. There are left to mourn his passing his widow, one son, five daughters and 38 grandchildren. The children are Mrs. Paul Hansen (Palmerston North), Mrs. W. Giles (Ohakune), Mrs. R. Watkins (Feeding). Mr. Peter Hansen (Carnarvon), Mrs A. Burdon (Palmerston North) and*Mrs. D. Burne (Carnarvon). The funeral service was conducted at the house by the Rev. Barnett, and continued at the graveside. The length ot the cortege was an eloquent tribute to the esteem in which the late • Mr. Hansen was held. The pallbearers Were Messrs. Giles, D. Burne, K. Watkins, A. Burdon (sons-in-law), Walter Gulliver (grandson) and J. H. Bowman (old friend of the family). Numerous telegrams and many floral tributes were received.