William D. “Bill” Hansen, 81, of Sparta, Wisconsin, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Bluff View Assisted Living in Holmen, Wisconsin. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, countless stories, and more than a few people still wondering whether everything he told them was entirely true.
Born April 4, 1945, to Vernon and Bernice (Erickson) Hansen, Bill grew up in the Bangor area as one of eight children and the youngest of five sons. His quick wit and mischievous personality were undoubtedly shaped by growing up in such a large family.
Bill proudly served in the United States Navy from July 16, 1964, to July 15, 1966, aboard the USS Penguin (ASR-12). He later worked at the Tomah VA Medical Center, where he was known for his friendly nature and sense of humor.
On February 20, 1982, Bill married his third wife, Donna Brewer. Although they later divorced, they remained close friends throughout the years.
Bill enjoyed finding peace in birdwatching and the freedom of the open road on his Harley-Davidson. Above all, hunting and fishing were among his most cherished pastimes, especially the countless trips he shared with his son, Rob, creating memories and traditions they both treasured. A gifted storyteller with a mischievous grin, Bill never missed an opportunity for a joke, a perfectly timed comeback, or cheering on his beloved Green Bay Packers as their undisputed number-one fan. Whether every detail of his stories was true was anyone’s guess, but that was part of his charm.
Bill is survived by his children, Shawna of Tennessee; Troy Pederson of Tampa Bay, Florida; Jolene of Sparta; Theresa (Denver Bills) of Sparta; and Robert of Wilton, Wisconsin. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Christopher, Maleah, and Ava, children of Shawna; Brandon Pederson, Shawnee (Alex) Marr of Peru, Indiana, and Elijah, Esther, and Abigail Pederson of Tampa Bay, Florida, children of Troy; Jason Benoit, Alex Hansen, and Ethan Arnold, children of Jolene; and Haylee, Sienna, and Havannah, children of Robert.
He is further survived by his brother, Vernon “Bud” (Suzanne) Hansen of Bangor; his great-aunt, Carol Michener of La Crosse; his sister-in-law, Sue Hansen of Kenosha; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, James “Jim” Hansen, Terry “Took” Hansen, and Dennis (Linda) Hansen; and his sisters, Janice Craig, Lori (Bruce) Betts, and Marla Hansen.
Bill will be remembered for his proud military service, his love of family, and the laughter he brought to those around him. If he could have one final word, it would probably be something entirely inappropriate for an obituary, followed by that familiar mischievous grin.
Fair winds, open roads, and following seas, Bill. May the fishing be good, the Packers always win, and the stories grow taller with every telling.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Fredrickson Funeral Home, 102 Hattan Street, Bangor, Wisconsin. A brief memorial service will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by burial at Fairview Cemetery, Fairview Street, Bangor, Wisconsin, with military honors provided by the United States Navy Funeral Honors Detail and Anderson-Good American Legion Post 40 of Bangor.
Family and friends are invited to gather at 3:00 p.m. at Wisco, 2700 Riley Road, Sparta, Wisconsin, for a celebration of Bill’s life and a catered meal.
All are welcome to join the family in sharing memories, stories, and laughter as they honor Bill’s life.
Fredrickson Funeral Homes is assisting the family. Online condolences for the family can be left at www.fredricksonfuneralhomes.com.
Fredrickson Funeral Homes
