Leo Nelson Hansen passed peacefully on July 25th, 2025, at the age of 94 leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and adventure that will forever be cherished. He shares eternal rest with his beloved mother Josephine Warholyk and father Neil Nelson Hansen, sister Margaret Murad, brothers Ronald and Donald Hansen, and beloved grandson Eric and great grandson, Dax Hansen.
Leo was devoted husband to Rita (nee Hernandez), his grade school sweetheart, with whom he shared 73 years of marriage filled with laughter, travel, and unwavering support. Their love story is a beautiful example of enduring commitment. He was a loving and present father to his five children: Dennis (Carrie), Diane Krier, Donna Saul (Michael), David (Adelle), and Dean (Tami). His love extended to his ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, nephews, and nieces, who were the apples of his eye. His radiant smile upon seeing them will remain a well-documented treasured memory.
Leo's life was rich with experiences. A graduate of West Technical High School (1949), he proudly served over five years in the United States Navy, commissioned on the U.S.S. Lake Champlain (CVA-39) during the Korean Conflict. This experience instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism and duty. To this extent, Leo was honored, being transported to Washington D.C. and represented Ohio for the 2014 "Honor Flight". He was also recognized with appreciation by earning the Ambassador of Peace Medal, commissioned by the Korean Ministry of Patriots and Veteran Affairs in 2015.
After his service, he built a successful and long-standing career as Chief Engineer for Cosmo Plastics Incorporated after pursuing a 2-year degree in Engineering.
Leo's achievements extend far beyond his professional life.
His dedication to his community was phenomenal. He volunteered for many years as a Physical Fitness Instructor at the Brooklyn YMCA, earning the prestigious Volunteer of the Year Award. Leo and Rita were also recognized for their selfless service at Metro Health, receiving the 2011 Pastoral Care Heart of Humanity Award. His commitment to service further extended to the Knights of Columbus, where he served for over 40 years. During his tenure with the Knights, Leo was Faithful Navigator in the Fourth Degree and served as District Deputy and Grand Knight for the Third Degree.
Leo was also one of the last surviving members of the Beta Club of West Technical High School. A special group with over 70 years of friendship, family and love. The surviving members and family meet regularly to this day.
Leo possessed an insatiable curiosity and a zest for life. He was a passionate reader, particularly of history. He loved exploring new places with his family and friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. He shared with his grandkids a love for Westerns, puzzles, and model trains reflecting a playful side, a constant reminder that even the most accomplished individuals retain a childlike wonder. He was the family historian, meticulously documenting family adventures with his video camera and 3-D View Master Camera, from which he spliced and filled many disks with his love. He was a die-hard Browns and Indians fan; his unwavering support was a testament to his loyalty and spirit. His hobbies included meticulously curated scrapbooks, coin, and stamp collections—all reflective of his attention to detail and appreciation for history.
As a man of faith, Leo was a generous soul who was always there for others. He volunteered many years for St. Vincent DePaul and as a Eucharistic Minister for Our Lady of Good Counsel. He consistently helped his neighbors with errands and his kindness extended to anyone in need.
As a handyman, his love for home renovation is present to this day and extends as far away as Montana. But "W8AWILE" he was a man of unwavering integrity, compassion, and strength, Truly – "a Man, Myth, and Legend."
VISITATION, will be held Friday, August 1st, between 4:00 – 8:00 PM at The Zabor Funeral Home, 5680 Pearl Rd, Parma, OH, 44129 (betw. Snow & Ridge). PLEASE MEET THE FAMILY AT CHURCH FOR THE FUNERAL MASS, Saturday, August 2nd, 11:00 AM, St. Leo the Great Church, 4940 Broadview Rd, Cleveland, OH, 44109. The burial will take place at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, Mon. August 4th, 9:45 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Leo The Great Church http://www.leothegreat.org/ and/or DDX3X Foundation (Donate – The DDX3X Foundation Fund), https://ddx3x.org/donate/ a cause close to Leo's heart and in support of his granddaughter, Elisabeth Saul.
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