Captain Merle Charles Hansen, USN (retired), 85, of Groton, died peacefully Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2015, after a short stay at Fairview Nursing Home.
He was born in Racine, Wis., the son of Magnus Clarence Hansen and Ethel (McCormick) Hansen, on July 25, 1929. He grew up in Racine before attending Marquette University in the NROTC program and graduating in June 1951. Merle served as an assistant professor at Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H. He married the love of his life, Audrey Mabel Keach on Feb. 19, 1955, at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Hanover, N.H. Captain Hansen then attended U.S. Naval Submarine School in New London. He served on a series of submarines before receiving orders as the commanding officer of the USS Tigrone in January 1963. Captain Hansen graduated from the Naval War College, Newport, R.I., in June, 1965 and served on the faculty of the college until June, 1967. He earned his master's degree in international affairs from George Washington University during this period. Merle went on to serve at duty stations in London, England; Charleston, S.C.; and Washington, D.C., before his retirement after 29 years.
Merle sought his calling in the Episcopal Church. He and Audrey became involved in Faith Alive. After his military retirement, Merle eventually became a lay minister for men in The Brotherhood of St. Andrew. After moving south to Charlotte, N.C., Merle became a member of the family of God at St. Martins and continued his study of the ministry through The Way of Faith.
During the last three years, Merle and his friend, Patricia Christian, visited with friends and family, enjoyed the theatre and adventured to locations such as Alaska; London, England; and Barcelona, Spain.
He is predeceased by his wife of more than 50 years, Audrey Hansen.
He is survived by his sister, Andrea Hansen of Manchester Center, Vt.; his half sister, Shirley Hansen Broberg of Green Valley, Ariz.; his son and daughter-in-law, Mace and Christine Hansen of Griswold; his grandsons, Mike Hansen and his fiance, Deanna Rosenberg of Stamford and Tyler Hansen of Griswold; and Merle's close friend, Patricia Christian of Madison.
The family would like to thank the staff of Fairview for the wonderful care and support they provided during this time.
A private burial service will held at a future date.
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