- Date Of Birth: June 12, 1925
- Date Of Death: March 1, 2015
- State: Idaho
Paul L. Hansen, of Boise, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2015. He was 89 years old.
Paul was born June 12, 1925 in Mapleton, Utah to Lester and Mabel (Warren) Hansen. After graduating from Springville High School, he served for three years in the US Navy during WWII. He was an accomplished basketball player in high school and was chosen to play for a basketball team in the Navy.
He was an active figure in the food processing industry, holding numerous leadership positions including Board of Directors for Idaho Growers and Shippers Association and the NW Food Processors Association, receiving many awards and recognition. Paul also was on the Board for the National Potato Council and was active in the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce. A local politician to whom Paul was once a mentor stated, “Paul was the John Wayne of the JR Simplot Company.” In 1999, Paul was inducted into the Idaho Potato Museum Hall of Fame for being the creator of preseason contracts which provided farmers with a price, and processors with a supply they could all depend on.
Paul loved to golf and at 68 shot his age. He was proud to be an “age shooter” every year after until he was 80. He distinguished himself at Hillcrest Country Club by shooting a hole-in-one on all four 3-par holes on that course, a record which still stands today. He enjoyed the game of golf most when he could be found playing in his favorite foursome with his daughter, Paula, her husband, Joel, and his son, Rob.
Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Phyllis, of Boise; three children, daughter, Paula (Joel) Reed of Boise, daughter, Sharon (Grant) Martinsen of Grants Pass, Oregon, son Robert (Nanette) Hansen of Idaho Falls; and one sister, Shirley (Howard) Reynolds of Tempe, Arizona. In addition, Paul is survived by seven grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
The family would like to express special thanks to the staff at Wynwood, Emerson House and XL Hospice who provided care and comfort during this time.
Family will greet friends at a reception from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
