Herb was a beloved family patriarch, South Pole scientist, explorer, adventurer, world traveler, meteorologist, and cartographer. A proud veteran, he was honorably discharged from both the U.S. Army Air Corps, where he served as a Corporal, and the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. In 1957, Herb was part of the first group of 18 men to ever “winter over” at the South Pole, and he was the last known surviving member of that pioneering team. In recognition of his contributions, the Hansen Glacier in Antarctica was named in his honor.
He was an active member of numerous organizations, including the American Legion, National Geographic Society, Antarctican Society, NRA, Acacia Fraternity, Gamma Theta Upsilon, and the Association of American Geographers.
Herb is survived by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law David and Ruth Gordon, more than 80 nieces and nephews, including great- and great-great-nieces and nephews across the United States, Indonesia, and Australia. He is also lovingly remembered by special family friends Lori, Parker, and Paisley.
He was preceded in death by his adored wife, Helen (Gordon) Hansen; his beloved mother Minnie (Olsen) Hansen and father Hans Hansen; parents-in-law David and Ida Gordon; his siblings and their spouses: Betty (Nelson) Boylan, Richard (Mary) Hansen, and Paul (Arla Mae) Hansen; cherished nieces and nephews; and his longtime best friend, Bernadine Johnson.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Roper & Sons South Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive, Lincoln, NE. A live stream of the service will be available.
An interment of ashes will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Omaha National Cemetery.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to his many friends at St. Croix Hospice, Linden View & Good Samaritan (Syracuse), Twin Towers Condos, Henry’s Diner (Crescent, IA), and Charleston’s Restaurant for their kindness and care.
Link to Service Recording: https://vimeo.com/1110564907/473b32148d?ts=0&share=copy