Arnold "Arnie" Anthony Hansen

Arnold “Arnie” Hansen was born April 17, 1939, in Aurora, IL. He passed away on May 8, 2026, at the age of 87 years.

Arnie was raised and attended school in Aurora. He entered the US Army in 1959, serving four years and was stationed in Germany for a time. He worked for the federal government for many years, stationed in Washington, DC, Maryland and Denver. He then worked for a government contractor, living in Australia for two years. Following retirement, he saw the country as a full time RVer, staying in many places and meeting many people. He settled in Show Low, AZ, where he was an active member of the Elks Lodge and Moose Lodge.

He met Debbie Black (who he affectionately referred to as his “Foxy Lady”) in Arizona and moved to Oklahoma, where they were married in 2012. They traveled to many national parks and beaches. After discovering Orange Beach, AL they eventually decided to move there permanently. Arnie made friends wherever he went and loved his people well. He had a Starbucks group in Oklahoma and Orange Beach, being known as the “Mayor” in OK and head of “Arnie’s Army” in OB.

Arnie was a very loving and caring person. He cared deeply about those he loved and was a friend for life. He was patient, kind, compassionate and tenderhearted with a sly sense of humor. Arnie was very intelligent and enjoyed learning about new things throughout his life. Through his friends and the church, he strengthened his faith in God and was always excited to learn more about his faith.

Rest well with Jesus, my Gentle Giant.

His parents and a sister, Elaine, preceded him in death. Arnie is survived by his wife, Debbie, sister, Sharon Waide of Chapel Hill, NC, brother Dale Hansen of Colorado Springs, CO, several nieces and nephews, and many wonderful neighbors and friends whom he cared about deeply.

Services will be 2:00 pm on Monday, May 11, at Orange Beach Church, 28751 Canal Rd. Graveside service will be 10:am on am Friday, May 15, in Mathewson Cemetery, Piedmont, OK.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Orange Beach Church.