Erik Hanson

Erik Christopher Hanson, age 55, a life-long resident of Madison, WI, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 15, 2018.

Erik was a kind and gentle soul, whose compassion extended beyond his family and friends to all those he cared for in his professional life. Erik enjoyed fishing in the lakes around Madison and northern Wisconsin, sports, playing with his cats and spending time with family and friends. Above all, Erik loved music and he was surrounded by it with the family band. His father, Rolfe (Gene) played numerous musical instruments, his mother, Elizabeth (Betty) was the primary vocalist, his brother, David, played keyboards, while Erik kept the beat playing drums. The beat went on at the family-owned jazz restaurant for many fun-filled years. After Betty passed, Erik's niece, Melissa, began singing with the band. After Rolfe passed, the band played on with Erik, David and Melissa. Although the band was smaller in number, Erik liked to say, "It's not quantity, it's quality." And they were quality, playing a steady gig at Liliana's for many years, as well as weddings and special events around Madison. Erik was also the drummer with the O'Bros for decades, playing alongside his brother and long-time friends.

Erik was born June 9, 1962 in Madison WI. He is survived by the love of his life, Phyllis Hanson, sister Laura (Dick) Timm, nephew Christopher (Sarah) Timm, nieces Melissa (Ryan) Grayson and Anna Thorson-Hanson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rolfe and Betty Hanson, and brothers, Peter Hanson (Cathy Krause), David Hanson, and sister-in-law Tami Hanson.

In lieu of flowers, please support your local musicians.

Cress Funeral and Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Rd, Madison
608-238-3434