Robert Frank Hansen
1943 – 2025

Born on April 9, 1943, in the picturesque town of Flagstaff, Arizona, Robert Frank Hansen, known as “Bob” to many and “Beaver” by those closest to him, led a life defined by purpose, faith, and service until his unexpected yet peaceful passing in Edmond, Oklahoma, on January 8, 2025, at the age of 81.
A man of deep Christian belief, Bob’s faith created a life filled with love, learning, and service to others. Bob’s educational journey began at Wasatch Academy in Mount Pleasant, UT, shaping a foundation that would lead him to earn a Bachelor of Science from Utah State University and a Master of Education from the University of Oklahoma. Through these experiences, he developed a keen commitment to education and service, which guided him in his career as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. In this role, he assisted individuals with disabilities in finding meaningful employment and developing self-sustaining career paths.
His devotion to service was reflected in his military career as a Chaplain Assistant with the United States Army. During his time in service, Bob was honored with several distinctions, including the National Defense Medal, Marksman Badge for the M14 rifle, and the Good Conduct Medal, showcasing his diligent commitment to excellence and integrity.
Bob married the love of his life Cathy Pursel in 1972. Together they created a loving family with the birth of their daughter, Jennifer, in 1974. Bob’s life further brightened when in 2002 his grandson Dylan was born, and whom he fondly called his “mini me”. Family was Bob’s anchor; he took immense pride in staying connected with family members, particularly the older generation, a testament to his deep familial bonds.
Bob grew up in the Presbyterian Church, nurturing a profound faith in God. He served as a Deacon at Santa Fe Presbyterian Church in Edmond. He also extended his love for learning by teaching Sunday School, instilling faith and spiritual knowledge in the younger generation.
In his personal life Bob was known for his wit and warm-hearted humor. Bob enjoyed bringing smiles through his antics which might include costumes to enliven an event. He had a love for Western-themed attire, frequently seen in cowboy boots, Levi jeans and his favorite western shirt. A trait that endeared him to all who knew him. Other interests included fishing, hiking, target shooting, and photography. He was a man who embraced life, learning languages like German fluently and dabbling in Russian and Danish, ever curious about the world around him.
Bob’s life was a testament to the power of laughter, learning and love. Always willing to lend a helping hand. Robert Frank Hansen is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy Hansen, his Daughter Jennifer Pennington and her husband Robert Pennington, and his grandson Dylan Pennington. Preceded in death by his sister, Carol Stratford (Hansen), and his parents, Roger B. Hansen and Katy E. Hansen.
While his passing was both sudden and unexpected, it was peaceful, He left this world in the comforting presence of his wife Cathy. Funeral services will be held on January 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Matthews Funeral Home in Edmond, Oklahoma.
In remembering Bob, we celebrate not only his roles as a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend, musician, student, soldier, colleague, Deacon, and cowboy but, more importantly, a child of God. We find solace knowing he is free from the burdens of this world, reunited with those who awaited him in the next.
Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel.
Cathy so sorry to hear about Bob. He was a good man and will be grately missed.