THE SPORTS FISHING COMMUNITY CRIES THE LOSS OF THE LEGENDARY DON HANSEN | BDEexterior
Don Hansen, 87, the legendary Patriarch of Sport Fishing and Founder of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, passed away on Wednesday, January 5, 2022. News of his death ricocheted through California’s sport fishing and fisheries management communities and across the country. -of the.
Don Hansen has served as Vice-Chairman of SAC, Chairman of the Pacific Fisheries Management Board, Chairman of the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee, and has served on the boards of many other organizations, including his local hospital.
“The phrase ‘served’ does not do justice to the decades he has spent at each post or the efforts he has made to improve our lives and our fleet! “
Ken Franke, President, Sportfishing Association of California (SAC).
Surviving her six children, three sons and three daughters, and 15 grandchildren, the sad news of her passing was announced on Facebook by her daughter, Donna Kalez, COO of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching.
“Words cannot express the sadness we feel – he will be missed every day,” Kalez wrote in the post. “We are so thankful that we were able to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas 2021 with him. He went over the New Years and celebrated by watching his team, the Rams, win!”
Hansen’s career in the sport fishing industry spans more than eight decades. During that time, it touched the lives of thousands of anglers and members of the sport fishing community around the world!
“Don Hansen was an icon – a legend of the West Coast fisheries. He was a mentor to many, the godfather of fisheries management, but more importantly, Don was a loving father, grandfather and friend to many. Please join us as we send our prayers and sincere love to the Hansen family and all who mourn for him during this time of loss.
“I will never forget the words of wisdom and encouragement that Don has shared with me over the years! “
Jaime Diamond, Stardust Sportfishing
Don Hansen’s son Dave and SAC President Ken Franke will be on the “Parlons du branchement” show on Sunday, January 23, 2022, from 7 am to 9 am on the Mighty 690.
Call online – 213-432-1090
The date and location of the memorial service will be posted when available.