James Clayton Hansen,76, of Windham Montana, passed away Thursday, March 30, 2017 at a local care facility of natural causes.

James was born on June 2, 1940 in Dumas, TX to John Hansen and Virginia Reynolds. After school, James enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served his nation by giving 20 years as a P3 Flight Engineer in addition to a tour of duty served in Vietnam. After retiring from the Navy, James worked for Lockheed-Martin as an aircraft superintendent for 13 years on modifying aircrafts. The last hurrah for Lockheed-Martin was the recovery of American P3 aircraft shot down in China, successfully accomplished.

James married Lennis Nally in 1989 and together they had 6 children, Greg (Margie) Hansen of Antioch, CA, Doug Hansen of Riverton, UT, Marc (Tracy) Hansen of Helena, MT, Tim (Teresa) Wilhelms of Stanford, MT, Nikole (Rick) King of North Bend, WA, and Steve (Julie) Hansen of San Jose, CA. Together Jim and Lennis shared 17 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

James was Mayor of Windham; a dedicated volunteer ticket taker and concession man extraordinaire. He delivered meals to seniors and was a proud member of the Stanford Stampede Club. He loved old cars, wood working, and always made time to go fishing and camping. James was an all-around good friend and exceptional father. He preached tough love but always made time for kids. He was the best grandfather.

James is survived by his wife Lennis, his children, and his brother, Terry (Kathy) Hansen of Rapid City, SD.

James was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and his son Steve Hansen.

The family suggested memorial donation be made to the Judith Basin County Free Library, 93 3rd Street North P.O. Box 486 Stanford, MT, 59479.

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