Harold Hanser
August 16, 1930 - February 14, 2014
Obituary
Always a romantic, Harold Hanser joined his wife, Marieanne, for St. Valentine's Day in heaven. He passed away peacefully at his home in Power's Cottage at St. John's Ministries Friday, February 14, 2014. Harold was born at home on the family farm in Broadview, Montana on August 16, 1930 to William and Helen (Benesh) Hanser. Harold attended St. Patrick High School in Billings and graduated from Holy Rosary High School in Bozeman. He received his Bachelor's degree from Carroll College and Law degree from the University of Montana. After a term as Deputy County Attorney and practicing law in the Derry, Hanser & Derry law firm, Harold was elected as the Yellowstone County Attorney; a position he held for 20 years. During this time he was able to put into practice his belief in social and restorative justice, becoming an advocate for women, children and victims of crime. Harold served on many boards and committees including the Montana Youth Council, Gateway House, State Bar Association, local and state DUI Task Forces, Board of Crime Control, Rimrock Foundation and St. John Lutheran Ministries. He was active in the Democratic Party and remained involved in local and state issues into his later years. Harold served his country in the Judge Advocate General Corps of the United State Army, retiring at a rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Harold was preceded in death by Marieanne, his wife of 58 years. He is survived by his three brothers and their families; William (Ellen) Hanser, Paul (Lois) Hanser and Ralph (Sharon) Hanser, his four children; Stephen (Luann) Hanser, Stephanie Hanser, Jeff (Carol) Hanser and Brett (Amy) Hanser, grandchildren; Jena (Corey) Thiel, Christina (Matt) Warren, Adrean Dills (Prabhu Tirumanedi), Henry Dills, Michael Dills, Katelynn Hanser, Brittany Hanser, Ashley Hanser and Nick Hanser, great grandchildren; Andrew and Danika Warren, Claire Tirumanedi and several cousins. Harold also leaves behind an extensive assembly of wonderful friends and acquaintances. Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday and 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Thursday at Dahl Chapel. Rosary will be recited at 5:30 p.m. followed by the Vigil at 6:00 p.m. Thursday with Funeral Mass noon on Friday, all at St. Patrick Co-Cathedral. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Angela's Piazza, Gateway House or charity of your choice.
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Memories
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Chuck Carroll
Other •
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you traverse this rough road. Harold was more than an uncle he was a true friend and confidant.
KK
Kent Koolen
Other •
What a remarkable man he was. Only rarely are we blessed with the privilege of having a special person make a real difference in our lives, and Harold was that person in my life. It was my privilege to work for Harold in the Yellowstone County Attorney's office for three years (1975-'78), when he was my mentor, teaching me how to be a good lawyer and showing me how to be a better person. We delighted in Harold's stories about his Broadview boyhood (eating fried rabbit ears, which we refused to believe) and about Marieanne's dog Dingo and young Brett's latest misadventures. Like my own father, Harold was a philosopher and I was always learning from him. I remember when Gary Svee described him in a Gazette article as "the always enigmatic Harold Hanser." What a delight he was. A brilliant trial lawyer, counselor, and friend. He will be missed, but he leaves us with many special memories to cherish.
GR
Gerri Rouane
Other •
Our hearts are sadden at the loss of your dear father and our uncle Harold. His life was filled with community service, both in the legal field as well in working for the betterment of women and children caught in difficult situations. Harold cared with all his heart about Billings and making our community safe for all. He wrote letters to our mom, Bessie, once a week for years, keeping her informed about different subjects. She so loved those posts. His woodworking adore my home and I will miss and love my Uncle Harold and my Aunt Marianne until I meet them again. With love to my cousins and offer them our deepest sympathies...Gerri and Butch
MH
Mary Ann Hamilton
Other •
You are at peace now and free from suffering. I know your with the rest of the family. Love to you. Rick and Mary Ann Hamilton
DC
Daniel Carroll
Other •
Now they are together again in the light of God with no more pain and suffering.
BS
Bill Shikany
Other •
Ralph,I wanted you to know how much I admired Harold. May he rest in peace. Peace be with you and your family.Peace on earth. Bill Shikany