Daniel Hansen

Blessed with a life abundant in laughter and love, Daniel Hansen was devoted to his family and friends above all else. He was a constant source of strength in all circumstances, facing challenges with determination and grit. Dan deeply savored each and every moment spent with his loved ones, and his family was undoubtedly his greatest treasure. His compassionate heart was revealed in the ways he went above and beyond to care for those around him. Gone too soon, Dan will be forever loved, and his legacy of kindness and unconditional love will be carried on in his footsteps.

The early 1990s were among some of the most influential years to be living in the United States of America. The Cold War was finally coming to a close overseas following the historic fall of the Berlin Wall in Germany. Frequent technological developments in computers, mobile phones, and more were making everyday life more convenient and enjoyable for many, and in the world of pop culture, the hits of Madonna and MC Hammer were among the most popular tunes of the year. It was during this exciting time that David and Sandy (Alderink) Hansen were happy to announce the arrival of their firstborn son. Daniel Lee made his entrance into the world on October 5th of 1990 in Zeeland, Michigan.

In many ways, Dan enjoyed a typical boyhood of his generation. He was raised in the family home alongside his two younger brothers, Cody and Trenton, with his beloved dog, Candice, as his constant companion. From a young age, Dan was very tenderhearted and caring, always looking out for those around him. He was also extremely social and loved getting to know new people. Wherever the family would go camping, Dan was the first to hop on his bike and cruise around the campground in search of new friends. He attended local Hudsonville Public Schools, where he was well-liked by his peers and teachers. Throughout those formative years, Dan excelled in athletics. He loved riding dirt bikes and playing both soccer and basketball.

In 2009, Dan graduated from Hudsonville High School. He stepped into a new chapter of life as an independent and confident young man. Dan was very sharp and intelligent, and his drive was unmatched. His love to debate people on various topics led to his dreams of becoming a lawyer. Dan went on to play basketball and study IT at Davenport University.

It was while attending Davenport that Dan met the young woman who would forever hold the key to his heart. Her name was Kloe Katsma, and she first caught Dan’s eye while selling tickets to the university’s games. During his freshman year, Dan decided to ask Kloe out, and she was happy to accept. The two enjoyed a memorable first date to the BOB downtown, followed by a movie. Their relationship blossomed, and they soon found themselves falling head over heels in love. Ready to spend the rest of their lives together, Dan and Kloe were married at Westend Christian Reformed Church on August 2, 2014. The newlyweds then enjoyed a honeymoon to Colorado before settling down in Grand Rapids. Dan was working for Apple while Kloe was a medical assistant. They poured their time into renovating their home on Finsbury Lane and later renovating their current home.

Much to Dan’s happiness, it wasn’t too long before his family began to grow. He and Kloe welcomed their first daughter, Stella, into their arms in 2021. The arrival of their second precious daughter, Charlotte, in 2022, was another moment to celebrate. Dan thrived in his role as a father, and his girls were his entire world. Even the simplest moments, like making them breakfast or watching morning cartoons together, brought him so much joy. Putting Stella to bed each night was one of Dan’s favorite traditions. He didn’t want to miss a single moment with them. Dan shifted his career to fit into his life as a doting dad, working remotely as an employee relations manager so that he could spend as much time as possible with his daughters. They loved swimming in the pool, playing outside, going to beaches and water parks, and more. Over the years, Dan formed so many unforgettable memories with his family. There was truly nothing he would not do for his girls.

In his free time, Dan could usually be found surrounded by his loved ones. He enjoyed watching movies and playing video games. Dan also devoured the Harry Potter book series several times. Every single day, you could count on him to be decked out in Carhartt clothing from head to toe—it was his signature style. Dan’s favorite foods included Alfanos's cheese pizza and any kind of salty snack.

As all who knew Daniel Hansen can certainly attest, the light and love that overflowed from his life has touched the hearts of so many. He served as a powerful role model of integrity and loyalty, and his solid work ethic did not go unrecognized. A devoted husband and father, Dan’s family was at the focus of all that he did. His dedication to those he loved was fierce and unconditional. Although he will be so dearly missed, Dan leaves behind a priceless collection of memories for his friends and family to hold near and dear to their hearts.

HANSEN - Daniel Lee Hansen age 35, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord and Savior unexpectedly on August 14, 2026. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Wayne (Ruth) Hansen, Bob (Mame) Katsma, and Chuck (Bernice) Langeland; and uncle, Daniel Hansen. Dan is survived by his wife, Kloe; daughters, Stella and Charlotte; parents, David (Sandy) Hansen; in-laws, Bob (Becky) Katsma; brothers, Cody (Emily) Hansen and Trenton Hansen; sister-in-law, Kara Katsma and her children, Bentley, Luke and Ava; brother-in-law, Kurt Katsma; grandparents, Norman (Maxine) Alderink; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Private family service will take place. Interment in Georgetown Twp. Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Daniel Hansen Memorial Fund for future needs of Kloe and girls. Celebrate Dan’s life by sharing a favorite memory or photo on his dedicated memory page at heritagelifestory.com