Steven Peter Hansen

Steven Peter Hansen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on July 8, 1951, in Chicago, Steve was the eldest of four children raised by his parents, Maxine and Peter Hansen. He grew up with his siblings Lynn, Joanne, and Bob—his younger brother and lifelong best friend, who preceded him in death in 2021.

In 1976, Steve married the love of his life, Gayle, and together they built a beautiful marriage rooted in deep friendship, relentless laughter, and unwavering devotion. His family was the center of his world.

Steve worked for Braniff Airlines from 1971 to 1982. His role with the airline allowed him to travel and share the benefits with Gayle and his parents. He loved to take a vacation and had many great stories about adventures he had in Germany, Amsterdam, Jamaica, and Mexico to name a few.

A natural-born salesman, Steve spent most of his career in the automotive world—selling cars, closing finance deals, and later working the lanes of an auto auction with unmatched expertise. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of makes and models, down to the sounds of their engines, although he never cared what he drove (aside from his 1971 yellow Corvette Stingray). Those who worked with Steve loved having him around, where his great jokes were always appreciated. Many of his co-workers became lifelong friends.

Steve had a legendary laugh—loud, booming, and contagious, often ignited by his own perfectly timed punchlines. He was a great cook, a golf guy, and most definitely a "let's sit outside and hang" guy. Food was his love language—he grew his own peppers, made delicious meals for everyone he loved, and was happiest grilling steaks on the back patio, beer in hand. Steve loved Portillo’s and Chicago Italian beef so much that he ended up putting giardiniera on everything (much to Gayle’s chagrin).

His love for his family was deeply felt. He showed his love by making sure his family had everything they needed. For the last three years COPD took much of his vigor, but he always had a smile on his face and looked forward to spending time with his family. Before he passed, he said, "I had the best life, wouldn't change a thing."

Steve is survived by his wife of 49 years, Gayle Hansen; daughters Robyn Anderson (Mike) and Heather Burmester (Paul); grandchildren Obie, Piper, and Audrey; sisters Lynn (Roger) and Joanne (Andy); and an entire community of family and friends who will miss his laugh and his stories.

In honor of Steve, we ask that you listen to some great music, grill a steak, have a beer, laugh too loud and love the people around you like he did—with your whole heart.