Sharleen B. Hanson's Obituary
Sharleen B. Hanson
Sharleen Betty Hanson, age 86, was born on January 31, 1939, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and passed away on November 22, 2025, in Tacoma, WA where she lived for over 60 years. She lived a life defined by love, devotion, and unwavering kindness.
Sharleen is preceded in death by her husband Richard Hanson, her son Tracy Hanson, her parents Asbjorn and Frances Locken, her sister Lois Miller, and her brother Ronald Locken. Survived by her daughter Deanna Nasca, son-in-law Steve Nasca, Daughter Laura Portalski, son-in-law Mark Portalski, granddaughter Taylor Portalski, and Grandson’s Connor Sihon and Kyle Sihon(Jacquelyn).
Sharleen spent her childhood in both Portland and Seattle, where some of her fondest memories were family trips. Family was everything to her, and throughout her adult life she continued to travel with her parents and siblings—on several occasions returning to Bearberry, Alberta, Canada, where her father’s family had once homesteaded.
After graduating from Ballard High School in 1957, Sharleen began her career as a telephone operator, back in the days before automated dialing. She later worked in the insurance industry, demonstrating the same reliability and care that she carried into every chapter of her life.
In 1961, Sharleen met the love of her life, Richard Hanson. The two were married on December 2, 1961, building a beautiful life, partnership, and family together. They welcomed three children, Tracy Hanson, Deanna Nasca, and Laura Portalski.
In addition to being a devoted full-time mother, Sharleen played an important role in the family business, Hanson’s Exxon, which she and Richard operated for over 30 years. Her dedication to her family was ever-present, steady, and selfless.
Sharleen was thoughtful beyond measure and never missed a chance to send a birthday, anniversary, or holiday card—small gestures that made others feel remembered and loved. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Sharleen had a lifelong love for animals of every kind. The family asks that donations be made to The Point Defiance Zoological Society (https://www.thezoosociety.org) or a charity of your choice, in lieu of flowers.
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