Kerry V. Hanson

Kerry Vance Hanson of Maricopa, AZ passed away on February 16th, 2026, at the age of 74.

Kerry was born to Kenneth and Jeanette Hanson on October 19, 1951, in Stromsburg, NE. He attended school at Stromsburg, participated in basketball, track and baseball and was a proud member of the 1970 graduating class. He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and graduated with a communications degree.

He married the love of his life, Pam Utecht in Wakefield in 1973. He was the proud father of two sons, Noah of Maricopa, AZ and Macy of Madison, MS.

Kerry worked several years for Wanek’s of Crete. Later the family moved to the Phoenix, AZ area where he worked for American Family Insurance for over 25 years. He received many awards and was honored as one of their top salesmen several times. Kerry was blessed with the gift of gab and a very positive attitude. He believed every day was his “best day ever.” He greatly enjoyed his grandson Simon when he came to visit. In 2003 he came back for the Stromsburg Swedish Festival and was named Honorary Swede. He was a devoted Nebraska Cornhusker fan and was a season ticket holder for the Arizona Cardinals.

Kerry is survived by his wife, Pam; two sons Noah Hanson of Maricopa, AZ and Macy (Lina) Hanson and grandson Simon of Madison, MS; brother Russ (Dixie) Hanson of Stromsburg; and sister Donna (Rich) Jarecke of Elkhorn, NE and nephews, nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

Kerry was preceded in death by his parents.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held in the future. No services at this time.