Walter "Stretch" Hansen, age 100, of Muskegon, Michigan passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025.  Stretch was born November 6,1924 in Chicago to Walter and Margaret Hansen. Stretch was the first born of 4 sons. His brothers Don, Leroy and Verne all preceded him in death. Walter got the apt nickname of "Stretch" while in the Army due to his height of 6'7". Most of his youth was spent in Hart, MI. He was a star basketball player and loved the game his whole life. He was a volunteer coach for a number of high school teams.  He enlisted in the Army and served from 1943 to 1946. He served in the Pacific Theater during WWII and was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant.

Upon return from the service Stretch worked most of his career for General Telephone Company in various cities and states.  He ended his career as Public Relations Manager in Muskegon. He was active in community organizations and the churches he attended.

Stretch met the love of his life, Mary Lou Gibson, at a dance in Twin Lake and they married on June 4, 1948. They were married 73 years and she preceded him in death in 2021. They have 5 children, Kathleen Wozniak of Monroe, Susan Bontrager (Gerry) of Texas, Rebecca Campbell of Muskegon, Barbara Hansen (Lorin) of Ann Arbor, Peter (Rosie) of Texas. Stretch and Mary Lou have 13 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by son in law Robert Wozniak, granddaughter Jennifer Wozniak and great granddaughter Scarlett Wozniak

Visitation and memorial service will be held at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2651 Shettler Rd. Muskegon, MI on Thursday, May 15, 2025. Visitation is from 10am to 11am, including a veteran's rifle salute to honor his military service just prior to the 11am memorial service. Luncheon will be provided following the service. Donations may be made to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Muskegon. MI.