Gerry Hansen: a retrospective

Leader, entrepreneur, fundraiser played many roles in the community, By Marilyn Rosenthal MILFORD — Gerry Hansen was a man for all seasons—and places—and people of all kinds. Gerry, who died on June 1, loved people—young and old. And everyone loved Gerry. Karen Loeschorn, Gerry’s business partner at the Dimmick (with her husband Ed) for 15 years said, “Gerry had a best friend wherever he went—at the gas station-at the Chamber (of Commerce) —on the golf course.” Asked, “How do you know Gerry?” Jenni Hamill replied, “How don’t you know Gerry? He played so many roles in the community and always had something intriguing or funny to say.” Hansen grew up in Nebraska with his two sisters (Peggy Dugick and Norma Morehouse) who still live there. He graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and made his mark in business in New York City. He excelled in marketing—first as a VP of marketing for Yardly of London, and then for Coro Industries. Much of his executive business experience was as CEO of Zenith-Movado Time Corporation and CEO of Girard Perregaux Time Corporation. From New York City to Pike County Hansen and Jim Levell, his Life Partner of 47 years, moved to Milford in 1985 because Gerry wanted a “house in the country.” What started as a weekend house soon became their main focus. Hansen and Levell bought the Dimmick Inn and Steakhouse in 1987. Hansen was the host and basically ran the place. Levell did graphics for the restaurant and mainly worked behind the scenes. Many people made life-long friendships with Gerry because of getting to know him though the restaurant. Jim Mooney (close friend and golf buddy) was one of those people. He said, “Like most successful restaurateurs, Gerry’s daily business contacts were a large part of his social life. He was a natural—outgoing, gracious, generous, and eager to please.” In the 1990’s, Karen and Ed Loeschorn became business partners with Gerry at the Dimmick. Karen said, “Gerry was the eternal optimist. He stood up for everything he believed.” Ed and Gerry were very close. Karen said, “They would be the calm ones. They were like co-husbands. I would yell and they would just remain calm. It was a great partnership.” Ray Weeks, the featured entertainer at the Dimmick for 17 years, said, “I think of him dancing in the Fireside Room with the wait staff after closing. He could out-dance the kids. It was a joy to watch him. Gerry made the whole place happy.” Duke Schneider, Gerry’s friend and attorney for 20 years, said “I watched them through thick and thin at the Dimmick which got better and better until they built it into one of the best businesses in the tri-state area.” The Dimmick was sold in 2007 and Hansen, semi-retired, eventually became a consultant to the Jack Champion Steakhouse in Port Jervis—now owned by Vicki McCabe and Deborah Edgett. Vicki said, “Gerry was my mentor. We will carry on and continue to make it work because he believed in it.” Pike County Chamber of Commerce Hansen was a director of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce from 1995-2005. He was president of the board in 1999. Ed Nickles said, “Gerry was interested in making our community better, especially for businesses in Pike County. He always had good ideas and input. Gerry was the Great Compromiser and could bring both sides of an argument together.” Dave Wilson, executive Director of the Chamber, said, “Gerry wanted to grow the whole business community- not just his own. He was one of the people who started the Route 739 Association.” Beth Nickles remembers Gerry as, “One of the younger sages in the community and one of the more quiet community activists. He was a great sounding board. I could always go to him with a community project.” Pike County Commissioner Gerry won the Election in 2000 for Pike Commissioner, along with Karl Wagner. Karl remembers Gerry as “always upbeat and a great negotiator.” Jay Tucker, Gerry’s campaign manager in both 2000 and 2004, said, “Gerry was a real visionary for Pike County.” Dave Wilson, a life-long Republican said, “He’s the only Democrat I’ve ever voted for. That’s how much I respected and liked him.” Duke Schneider said, “Gerry brought sunshine into his politics.” United Way of Pike County Lee Oakes (who recruited Gerry as United Way Board Member) remarked, “ Gerry appeared to be gregarious, but underneath there was a deeply thoughtful, very private, and principled man.” Alan Dolge, a former president of United Way, remembers him as, “Being very instrumental in helping start Chefs United—a successful fundraising event which continues to this day. “ Bon Secours Hospital Hansen was President of the Bon Secours Foundation Board and on the board of directors of the Hospital. Clare Brady, V.P. of Mission at Bon Secours Charity Health System said, “He made sure everything was done correctly and in order. He will be missed.” Doris Mooney remembers Gerry as, “ A great mentor for me with my hospital work at Bon Secours. Whether it was improving business or health care, he was there. He also had one of the most wonderful senses of humor.” Ron Demczak, co-chaired the Hospital golf outing with Gerry and was another of Gerry’s close golf buddies. Ron said, “I remember Gerry as a unique individual who was plugged into everything going on in the community. I talked to him every day. He was a great listener. “ There will be a memorial gathering from 2-4 p.m. on Monday, June 14 at The Windy Dog, 723 Twin Lakes Road. Call 570-296-2770. Parking is limited. People are urged to carpool. Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Pike County Humane Society in the name of Gerry Hansen.