John W. Hanson ... enjoyed playing tennis; at 73

DOVER - John W. Hanson, 73, died peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 17, 2022, at Wentworth Douglass Hospital in Dover, in the presence of his loving wife and daughter. John was the son of the late Jeanette (Teceno) and Murray Hanson, born on May 9, 1949 in Melrose, Mass. He was the devoted husband of Marie and darling Dad to Anna. He was a loved brother and great buddy of Rick (Elaine) and Mike (Teresa), cherished uncle of Stephanie and Jessica. Special cousin to Betsy Tracy (Bob) and the late Kathy Carlisle (John).

Following graduation from Melrose High School he began working toward his degree at Lowell Technical Institute. Following his time in school, John began his journey of serving for the Air Force. There he served from 1971 to 2004 both in active duty and the Air National Guard, eventually earning the rank of Lt. Colonel. He was passionate about flying, loved nothing more than being in the cockpit and enjoyed the camaraderie of military life. He was equally as passionate about tennis and spent time on the courts six days a week before falling ill.

John will be remembered as someone who extended his hand to establish and take care of friendships. He enjoyed the company of a wide group of friends, including high school buddies, college roommates, military colleagues, neighbors and many others he encountered throughout his life. Friends and family should celebrate the life he lived and enjoy the memories of the kind man who left footprints on their hearts. Time may pass but cherished memories will never fade.