James Kenneth Hansen, lovingly known as Jim, Grandpa, or Grampy, passed away peacefully after a short illness on November 20, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on March 29, 1938, in Manistee, Michigan, Jim led a full and remarkable life that took him to various corners of the country and world. Places he called home included Manistee, Michigan; Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania; Lancaster, Texas; Alpharetta, Georgia; Frisco, Texas; and finally, Katy, Texas.

Jim was a proud graduate of Eastern Michigan University, earning his degree in 1961. His professional journey was marked by an impressive career in the paper and pulp industry, where he steadily climbed the ranks to retire as Executive Vice President at the National Headquarters at Rock Tenn (now WestRock) near Atlanta, Georgia.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jim had a deep love for the outdoors. A lifelong downhill snow skier, he embraced adventure with enthusiasm, even learning to snowboard at the age of 60. He was active with the ski patrol at ski areas in Michigan and Pennsylvania. Additionally, he developed many friendships throughout his life from his love of the game of tennis. He was a passionate hunter, with many of his prized trophies adorning his home in Georgia. At home, he found joy in the simple pleasures, from tending to his expansive yard in Alpharetta on his trusty lawnmower to feeding the neighborhood birds and wildlife.

Jim shared a special bond with his wife, Carolyn, whom he married in 1973. Together, they shared a love for four legged friends, especially dachshunds, doting on a cherished lineup of furry friends over the years, including Sally, Sue, Gretchen, Duchess, Quinnie, Doxie, Schautzie, and Clover.

Family was at the heart of Jim's life. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and prioritized the well-being of those he loved. He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth R. Hansen and Charlotte M. Hansen (Brandau); his beloved wife, Carolyn M. Hansen (Faul); his son, Mark J. Hansen; his stepdaughter, Jilaine Estilow (Kubanek); his brother-in-law, Dale L. Picardat; and his niece, Jere L. Holmes (Picardat).

Jim is survived by his sons, Hans C. and Heather Hansen (Katy, TX) and Chandler H. and Christina Hansen (Tool, TX). In addition, he leaves behind his stepchildren: Kevin G. and Kelly Kubanek (Holland, MI), Lisa M. and Dan Hamilton (Plano, TX), and Judith D. and Todd Brossard (Fort Worth, TX). He is also survived by his sister, Suzanne C. Picardat (Manistee, MI), and her children: Dale L. Picardat Jr. (Cape Coral, FL), Patti J. and Tim Forsythe (Sun Lakes, AZ), James D. and Jodi Picardat (Manistee, MI), Kenneth F. and Desiree Picardat (Manistee, MI), Philip P. and Jessica Picardat (Grand Rapids, MI), and John P. and Janet Picardat (Callao, VA).

Jim's legacy also lives on in his many adoring grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who carry forward his kindness, determination, and love. Jim will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his devotion to family, and the joy he brought to those around him.

A Celebration of his life will be held on December 21, 2024, at Oak Grove Funeral Home, 309 Parkdale Avenue, Manistee, Michigan, 49660. Visitation begins at 11:30 AM, with the service at 12:30 PM, followed by a luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the charity of your choice for the welfare of animals.

Please visit www.oakgrovefh.com to share a photo, memory, or condolences with Jim's family. Oak Grove Funeral Home in Manistee is honored to assist the family during this difficult time.