Beverly...

Kenneth S. Hanson, 62, a longtime resident of Salem, MA passed away on Thursday, October 07, 2010 at the Kaplan Family House after a short, but courageous battle with cancer. Born in Lynn, MA he is the son of the late Eleanor and Douglas Hanson.

Growing up in Lynn, Ken attended Lynn Technical High School. After graduation Ken spent several years working in the sign manufacturing industry, a family tradition. Ken, the owner of the Star Sign Company in Beverly, spent many years working side by side with his father Douglas until his passing in 1998. Since that time Ken has had the pleasure of doing the same with his son Jess who will continue to run the business established by Douglas Sr. in 1956.

In life there was nothing Ken enjoyed more than spending time with his children as he would frequently be seen at the local hockey rinks and athletic fields. Ken was a devoted father who would always find the time to be with his family. Ken truly enjoyed sailing and for over thirty years he and longtime friends Dick Lowe and Randy Whitten shared with him this passion for the sea.

Ken is survived by his four beloved children, Kristian and his wife Susan of Salem, and their son Owen, beloved grandson of Ken; Jess and his wife Kim of Georgetown, MA, his two daughters Kasey and Jamie Hanson of Salem . Ken is also survived by the mother of his children, Donna Hanson; his younger brother Douglas and his wife Danielle . In recent years Ken developed a tremendously loving relationship with Evelijn Rijke of Marblehead who was at his side throughout his courageous battle

A celebration of his life will be held at the Dodge-Shreve house, 29 Chestnut Street, Salem, MA. Saturday October 9, 2010 from 4-7 pm . In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in his name to the Kaplan Family Hospice House, c/o Hospice of the North Shore, 75 Sylvan St., Suite B-102 Danvers, MA 01923. For online guest book or additional information please contact the Murphy Funeral Home, 781 631 8885 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.