Rev. David Hansen

David Hansen, devoted pastor, mentor, business leader, and man of unwavering faith, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on February 3, 2025, at age 84. Throughout his life, he lived by Proverbs 3:5-6:

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

David’s life was a testament to his calling into pastoral ministry, which he received as a young man while prayerfully reading the Bible under a tree on Mt. Rainier. Abandoning two years of dentistry study, he committed himself to theology, earning a bachelor’s degree from Seattle Pacific College and a Master of Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary. His formative teachers included Grant Whipple, Jerry Wilson, John Flack, and Howard Hendricks.

Born and raised in Bremerton, David faced early adversity at age nine when his father passed away. Alongside his sister, Norma, he learned resilience and resourcefulness under the care of their devoted mother. Whether earning money for clothing, dates, or college tuition, David worked tirelessly—a strong work ethic that defined his entire life.

While studying at Dallas, he met the love of his life, Kay, a true Southern belle. Together, they became deeply involved in the college and career group at Scofield Memorial Church, guided by the mentorship of Harry and Shirley Traywick. Lifelong friendships with James and Carolee Cundiff, along with Dick and Suzann Evans, were forged during these formative years. Many young couples met and married through this remarkable community of faith.

David and Kay shared a strong and loving marriage built on faith, trust, and devotion. They prioritized their relationship with a weekly date night and worked in unison through life’s challenges. Together, they led ministry trips to Israel, strengthening the faith of those who traveled with them, and hosted church groups at their lake house, providing a place for fostering deep connections, rest and renewal.

David’s ministry was not confined to a pulpit; his calling to invite people to salvation through Jesus transcended location and circumstance. Whether in abundance or scarcity, day or night, he remained resolute in his mission, trusting God to guide his steps. Thousands came to know Christ through David’s unwavering obedience and commitment to sharing the Gospel. His wisdom and listening ear made him a trusted counselor to many.

From 1966 to 1977, David pastored Silver Beach Community Church, followed by decades of faithful service teaching an adult Sunday school class at Geneva Community Church. His verse-by-verse expository teaching nurtured the faith of countless people. His heart for evangelism extended to Western Washington University, where he dedicated one day a week to sharing his faith with students. His impact was so profound that many students and staff from Campus Crusade began attending his church.

Following his career in formal pastoral ministry, David became a realtor and businessman. A builder in every sense of the word, he poured himself into constructing church buildings, rentals, spec houses, and land developments. But above all, he built people—investing in them one-on-one and walking alongside them in their faith. Every Wednesday at 6 a.m., he met with his friend Mike Watters for prayer and Bible study, faithfully outlining scripture on napkins.

David’s greatest joy was his son, Jon. Together they enjoyed walking through the woods near Lake Whatcom, observing God’s handiwork in nature, and studying scripture at Jon’s breakfast nook. David and Kay ensured Jon was deeply rooted in faith through Sunday school, Awana, youth group, and Camp Firwood. Seeing Jon eventually become the director of Camp Firwood and lead others to Christ was one of the greatest blessings of David’s life.

As a grandfather, David was always there for his two grandsons, Ben and Sam. He and Nana Kay helped make every holiday and birthday special and regularly attended their sporting events. More than anything, he helped establish their faith in Jesus through conversations, encouragement, and Bible study, always quoting Proverbs 3:5-6 when he saw them.

David found great joy in the outdoors and simple pleasures. He loved hunting, fishing, waterskiing, hiking, and watching basketball. One of his favorite treats was vanilla ice cream with caramel sauce, which he enjoyed often.

A man of consistency, David spent each morning in prayer and Bible study. His life was marked by obedience, wisdom, and an unrelenting passion for bringing others to Christ. He clung to the promise of Proverbs 3:6:

"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kay, in 2023, and his parents, Esther and John Hansen. He is survived by his sister, Norma (Greg) Thomas; his cousins, Jack, Terry, and Steve Anderson; his son, Jon; and his two beloved grandsons, Ben and Sam.

David leaves behind a legacy of faith that will continue for generations to come.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 17 at 11:00am at Northlake Church, 1471 McLeod Rd. Bellingham, WA, followed by a reception and time of sharing. David was laid to rest at Bayview Cemetery.