Richard Alan Hansen II

Richard Alan Hansen II ("Richie") July 27, 1964 – February 1, 2025 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Alan Hansen II, also known to many as Richie/Rich. Richie passed away on February 1, 2025, at the age of 61, with his son Tyler by his bedside after a courageous battle with cancer.

Richie showed us that no matter the diagnosis he was faced with, he was going to take it head on and fight like hell. Richie was born on July 27, 1964, in Illinois, to Carol and Richard Hansen. He was a son, father, and friend to many. Richie’s passion for sports started in his high school days, where he made a name for himself as an all-star basketball player. His love for sports never faded. He was known for cheering on the Helena Big Horns at the ice arena or watching the professional leagues from his couch.

Richie also had a love for the Chicago Cubs. One of his proudest moments was witnessing them take a World Series victory during his lifetime. Richie found Florida to be home for many years, where he welcomed his two beloved sons, Tyler James Hansen and Clay Dakota Hansen. Weekends were often spent with Tyler, mudding and creating memories that would last a lifetime and attending to races at citrus county speedway with Clay.

Richie also found a deep love for speed and racing and was known to be at the Citrus County Speedway and track watching an event. Years later Rich moved to East Helena, MT, with the the love of his life, Meredith, and their dog Dixie where they would call their forever home. Together, they enjoyed chasing the outdoors and  exploring trails on their four-wheeler or snowmobile. He enjoyed working on his project of many years, his 1986 Chevy K10 lifted on 35s. Rich worked for Helena Sand and Gravel for 12 years. Some would say the best operator this side of the mississippi. He often said, “If it ain’t a cat, it’s a dog,” and “If it ain’t a high track, it’s a no track.”

Rich was a humble man who preferred to let his work speak for itself and not have the spotlight on him, but all that knew him, knew he was one of the best hard workers they had. It was clear during his final days with all the love and support his co workers showed, His friendship was valued by many, as many made the drive to Great Falls to visit Rich at Benefis to crack a conversation of the good times they had over the years.

Richie is survived by his mother, Carol Demarco; his sons, Tyler and Clay Hansen; stepdaughter Britney Liles; Brother Rodney Hansen and his three grandchildren, Kenley, Violet, and Levi Hansen.

He is preceded in death by his father, Richard Alan Hansen, and his beloved Meredith Garrett. In memory of Rich, at your next sporting event give a cheers to Rich as he is watching from the best seat in the house now. While we know its not a goodbye but a see you later, rest easy Rich, we will carry your memory on.

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