Ejvind “Ivan” Hansen, Beloved Community Figure, Dies at 88

Ejvind “Ivan” Hansen, a cherished member of the Prince George community in British Columbia, passed away peacefully at his home on August 1, 2025, at the age of 88. His death marks the loss of a man known for his adventurous spirit and commitment to friendship. Just a day before his passing, Hansen participated in his regular morning hike at Caledonia Nordic, a tradition he maintained for over two decades. This ritual, which included hiking and sharing coffee along with homemade treats, was a significant aspect of his life, particularly during the winter months when he enjoyed cross-country skiing.

Born on October 18, 1936, in Denmark, Hansen was one of seven siblings. He grew up with a strong sense of adventure, which led him to attend forestry school. By the age of 21, he was logging in Sweden, saving money to realize his dreams. In May 1958, with only $105 in hand, he embarked on a journey across the Atlantic with lifelong friend Fred Host aboard the Norwegian freighter Stavanger Fjord SS. They arrived in Halifax before traveling west to Vancouver, where Hansen navigated various jobs including bottling, blacksmithing, and farm work. These experiences paved the way for a promising future in the forestry industry.

Hansen’s determination led him to purchase a 1939 Nash, which he used to travel north, initially finding work fighting fires at Summit Lake. With his earnings, he acquired essential tools and ventured further into the Peace Country, where he and his friends lived in an old barn, relying on hunting and foraging for food. His resilience shone through as he eventually secured steady work in tree falling during the winter months.

In 1959, Hansen joined the Industrial Forest Service and later founded Hansen and Dyer Logging Planning. He concluded his career with The Pas Lumber. Many forestry roads across Northern British Columbia bear his mark, a testament to his dedication and significant contributions to the landscape he cherished.

Hansen’s values were deeply influenced by his experiences during World War II and the Nazi occupation of Denmark. He held a profound appreciation for freedom and an unwavering love for Canada, embracing its wilderness, beauty, and core values of social justice, democracy, and the rule of law.

He is survived by his siblings in Denmark, Birthe, Vagn, and Aage; his children Annette (Greg), Mark (Laura), and Tanya (Jason); and his grandchildren Griffin, Justin, Ryan, Gemma, Dannika, and Nathan. He also leaves behind five great-grandchildren, with another on the way. Hansen was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruth, in 2021, as well as his siblings Kristine, Ejgil, and Gerda.

His life was marked by honesty, adventure, and a deep-rooted generosity. Reflected in the words of his family, “We will miss you, Ejvind, Dad, brother, Bestefar, and friend. We will carry your legacy of integrity, compassion, and that joyful reminder you always gave us: ‘Enjoy life.’”