David Harold Hanson

David Hanson, 97, of Ottawa, passed away peacefully on June 16th surrounded by family, at Manotick Place Retirement Community. 

He was born in 1926 in Eastview (Vanier) to Helga and Marius Hanson, who had emigrated from Norway. He grew up in a large family, with 4 sisters and 3 brothers (Karsten, Gyda, Esther, Arthur, Charles, Sylvia and Ingrid).

David married Nora Murray Fitzpatrick in 1966 and they had 2 children, Thomas and Andrew. Nora passed away in 2017. They shared a love for horses and were often found at equestrian shows throughout the Ottawa area.

He attended Ottawa Technical High School in the graphic arts program and worked as a commercial sign painter for over 50 years, founding his own company, Hanson Sign Process.

He loved the outdoors, and was an avid horseman who continued riding into his seventies. He was also a prolific artist, inspired by the Group of Seven and others. One of his favorite subjects was depicting life in the Byward Market, where he spent time in his youth, helping his father in his blacksmith’s shop on Clarence St.

David is survived by son Andrew, daughter in law Kimberley (née Birkbeck), grandsons Owen and Hugo and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorials or donations may be made to HealthPartners Canada.