Henrick “Hank” Lange
Passed: June 30, 2019
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Henrick “Hank” Lange
Passed: June 30, 2019
Obituary
Henrick “Hank” Lange passed away at the age of 90 on June 30, 2019, in Goodyear, AZ. He was born on a farm near Stockholm, SD on October 16, 1928, to Johanna Katrina “Treena” Anderson Lange and Ole S. Lange. He was the oldest of four children. He had an aptitude for machinery that remained with him his entire life.
Hank served in the US Army. He married Iris Nadine Nelson in 1951 shortly before shipping out to join the 25th Infantry Army forces fighting in the Korean Conflict. Upon his return he became a certified mechanic and began working at Sanders, later to become Sharp Chevrolet in Watertown, SD, where he worked until his retirement. He and Iris raised three children in Watertown. They were long-time members of Grace Lutheran Church.
After retirement, Hank and Iris enjoyed traveling in their RV all over the United States. They also took several trips to Europe. They moved full time to Phoenix, AZ in 2003.
Hank was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Esther, brothers, Leo and Russell, and many beloved uncles, aunts, and cousins.
Hank is survived by his wife, Iris; children, Linda (Gary) Nelson of Phoenix, AZ, Larry (Vikki) Lange of Griffin, GA, and Laurel (Jeff) VanDenBerg of Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren, Colin (Sara) Nelson of Phoenix, AZ, Kirstin (Seth) Nelson Yates of Phoenix, AZ, and Trevor Nelson of Detroit, MI; great-granddaughter, Eva Nelson; sisters-in-law, Camilla and Annette Lange; and many treasured nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Hank taught his family the values of hard work and education and leaves them a legacy of a strong faith.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, July 29, 2019, at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338. A celebration of life and interment of ashes will be held in SD at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be sent to Evergreen Cemetery Association, 47175 155th St., Stockholm, SD 57264.
3 responses to Henrick “Hank” Lange
Kristi Desaulniers says:
July 7, 2019
Iris, Laurel, Larry, and Linda,
I read of dear Hank’s passing in today’s Argus Leader. Iris – you and Hank made such an impact on my life when I first started teaching with you at Mellette Elementary in Watertown. You welcomed me to the school as a first-year teacher and more importantly into a treasured friendship over the three years I lived in Watertown – and beyond. I especially remember joining you and Hank at your home for movies and popcorn, for various interesting excursions here and there, learning more about your children and extended families through conversations, and for your kind and gracious friendship. Your smiles and the love you showed for each other are also significant to remember. In celebrating Hank’s life, may the shared memories of your many travels and adventures together bring you peace and comfort in knowing God’s plan for your lives together. I love you!!
Remembering,
Kristi
ann pederson (racine) says:
July 8, 2019
ToHanks family. A great neighbor – hard working and quiet with a smile when he saw to kids do something cute. The Pederson Kids and Lange kids ran back and forth through the tall lilac hedges. wonderful memorys. Annie Pederson(Racine)
Elmira Smith says:
August 14, 2019
Dear Iris – Many memories and Aunt Opal Nelson are a part of them. Memories of your mom and dad are among the memories. Sorry to hear about the loss of your love one. He is in our memories and yes he was quiet but always welcomed us in your home. Take care of yourself. Sorry I didn’t get to know your children as I am they are as sweet as you and Hank. Elmira Janssen Smith