Robert Glade Hansen

1943-2026

Robert Glade Hansen was a beloved husband, father, physician, and friend whose life was defined by kindness, love, service, and an abiding devotion to the people he held dear. He passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on September 7, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of love that will continue through all those whose lives he touched.

Born on September 7, 1943 in Salt Lake City, Utah, Robert was the cherished only child of Melva Glade Hansen and Basil Cleone Hansen. From his earliest years, he was loved not only by his parents but especially by his Aunt Melba and his Grandmother Hansen whom taught him the love of learning and reading. The family moved from Salt Lake City to Ogden and eventually landed in Logan, Utah where he finished primary and secondary education and proceeded to attend Utah State University where he played tennis on a college scholarship.

After serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to New England, Robert found his calling in medicine and became an accomplished orthopedic hand surgeon. He attended University of Utah for medical school, Boston City Hospital for surgical internship then Boston University Hospital for his residency in surgery. He served in the Army as an orthopedic surgeon during the Vietnam Nam War, helping many at the Dewitt Army Hospital in Fort Belvoir, VA. Following his service, he finished up his residency and hand fellowship at USC-LAC Medical Center.

He was deeply committed to his profession and, most importantly, to his patients. His surgical skill was accompanied by genuine compassion. He listened, he cared, and his patients appreciated his tender touch.

Yet as meaningful as his career was, Robert's greatest accomplishment was the family he loved so deeply. He was a devoted husband and a wonderful father to his sons, Ryan and Matthew. Robert was an example to his children in the truest sense. He taught not simply through words, but through the way he lived. His sons were among his greatest sources of pride and joy, and he treasured watching them grow into the men they became. Last year, he was elated to welcome Matthew’s wife Hannah into the family and was honored to officiate their marriage on the beaches of Kaua’i.

Robert believed that some of life's greatest treasures were found in being together and enjoying the world around him. He loved long distance running, tennis, skiing and baseball, tending his garden, hiking with his dogs, reading and learning, and, most of all, going on adventures with his family. He had an appreciation for the outdoors and a wonderful ability to find joy in both grand adventures and everyday moments.

For his wife, Robert was so much more than a husband. He was her companion, her partner, her safe place, and the person with whom she shared the beautiful adventureof life. Their love was woven into the family they created, the memories they made, and the countless ordinary moments that, in the end, became the extraordinary story of a life together.

Robert's legacy will be found not only in the many hands he healed through his work as a surgeon. It will be found in the kindness he showed and most of all, in the family he loved beyond measure.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Heidi; his sons, Ryan Knollin Hansen and Matthew William Hansen; his daughter-in-law, Hannah Grace Hansen; and the many family members, friends, patients, and colleagues who will carry his memory in their hearts.

His presence will be profoundly missed, but the example he gave and the love he shared will live on forever.

A private service will be held to honor his life. Please contact a family member forfurther details.