Charles “Gene” Hansen – January 23, 1940 – January 28, 2026
Charles “Gene” Hansen was born on January 23, 1940, in Logan, Iowa, to Charlie and Vivian (Berger) Hansen. He grew up in the area and graduated from Woodbine High School in 1958. On August 24, 1961, he was united in marriage to Judith Kay Brown, and the couple soon began their family together.
Gene proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Corps from 1961 to 1965. A lifelong resident of the Walnut community, he was a devoted member of Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut, Iowa, where his faith guided his life and relationships.
Well-known and admired in the cattle industry, Gene built a remarkable nearly 40-year career as a cattle buyer, with the majority of his tenure at Tyson/IBP. He was deeply passionate about his work and cherished raising his own Angus herd, where he took great pride in breeding and selling quality bulls.
Gene embodied true kindness, a quality evident in his lifelong devotion to caring for both people and animals. He was known for his daily rounds tending to Walnut’s stray cats, a neighbors dog near the farm, and his many barn cats. Even after selling his Angus herd, he continued his nurturing routine, ensuring the well-being of those creatures he held dear.
Above all, Gene will always be remembered for the profound love, strength, and unwavering commitment he showed to his beloved wife, Judy. He devotedly cared for her through nine years of dementia, remaining faithfully by her side and keeping her in the comfort of their home for as long as his health permitted.
Gene was preceded in death by his wife Judy Hansen; daughter Robin Henningsen; parents Charlie and Vivian; brothers, Lyle Hansen, John Hansen and sister Carolyn Waldemer.
Gene is survived by his daughter; Tami Edge of Humboldt; sons, Jeff Hansen of Wiota, Cory (Kristie) Hansen of Stuart; son-in-law Breck Henningsen of Oakland; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister Kathy Lecnar of Newton; sister-in-law Elaine Hansen of Arizona
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to a local animal shelter.
Memorial services for Charles Hansen will be held on Friday, February 6th at 11 AM at the Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut. Family will greet friends on Thursday, February 5th from 5 to 7 PM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca. Burial will be held at the Layton Township Cemetery with full military honors.
The Pauley Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
