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A man of quiet generosity and with a great sense of humor, Harold Hansen was never one to flaunt or be frivolous with money. Many family members received help through his generous gifts over his life time. Harold and Lois Hansen were always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need, and had a very soft spot for helping animals. Through planned giving by the Hansens, an eternal legacy was left to the residents of Lethbridge and southern Alberta to help support community projects.

Harold Hansen was born in Lethbridge on January 23, 1932 and passed away September 15, 2006. His family owned and operated the Castle Hotel, now known as the Castle Apartments. Harold worked for Time Air in its infancy and later, along with his brother Charlie, managed the Castle and other revenue properties in the city. After the passing of his mother, the Castle was sold and Harold owned and operated a car wash on 5 Ave. N. for several years. His wife, Lois Marie Clifton, worked for Alberta Government Telephones until her retirement.

Not having children of their own, Harold and Lois always welcomed nieces and nephews to their home. They often helped family with a place to stay while completing their education or while working in Lethbridge. Harold and Lois both gave excellent advice and were always ready to provide assistance whenever they could.

"Just one more thing" was Uncle Harold's way of beginning a teasing comment or probe into his nieces' and nephews' lives. They loved his advice, but cringed as he took great pleasure in tormenting them about their latest love interest, new hair cut, or even their cars. This carried on even to great nieces and nephews who were often found spending time at their home. Harold also loved his dog Rusty, bird watching, and especially remembering days when he rode his old Norton motorcycle.

The greatest passion in Harold's life was his wife, Lois Marie Clifton, who passed away in 1998 leaving a great emptiness in his life. After her death, many of his afternoons were spent visiting with family or sitting with old friends swapping stories about when they were young.

The Board of Directors of the Lethbridge Community Foundation is honored to be entrusted with the Hansen legacy.

From Report to the Community 2008/Aug 2009