Paul Hansel

Paul Hansel, 67, of Langdon, ND, lost his three-year battle with prostate cancer on July 5, 2023, at his home.

Paul Francis Hansel was born to Joseph and Anna’Mae Hansel on June 20, 1956, in Langdon, ND, number 8 among 11 children in the family. He grew up on the Hansel family farm south of Langdon, ND. Paul graduated from Langdon High School in 1974. He went on to North Dakota State College of Science to study plumbing and heating, graduating in 1976. Paul then worked for a short time at the MLRS complex near Nekoma, ND, until its eventual shutdown. He then moved to Seattle, WA, working various construction jobs. In 1979, his next adventure took him to Gillette, WY, where he worked in the plumbing trade, traveling around the state. In 1983, Paul met Linda, and they married in October of 1984 at the Saint Barbara’s Catholic Church in Powell, WY. They were blessed with two sons, Jacob and Joseph, in 1986 and 1988, respectively. Paul and Linda would later divorce in 2008.

Paul and family moved to Langdon, ND, in 1989. Paul shortly after began his own business, Hansel Plumbing and Heating, which he built up and eventually co-owned with his son, Joseph, until his death. During his 34 years back in Langdon, Paul was a member of the Knights of Columbus and served with and assisted in the founding of the Cavalier County Search and Rescue. His expertise, unique problem-solving skills, and helpful personality were beneficial to many aspects of the community. Paul enjoyed cooking, especially making pies and sausages. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, camping, being around friends and family, and spending time at Nekoma. His absence will be felt across the community.

Paul is survived by his children: Jacob (Maria) Hansel of La Farge, WI, and Joseph (Danielle) Hansel of Langdon, ND; grandchildren: David Rathkie, Dakota, Anna’Mae, Cassandra, Kamden, Layken, and Taten; ex-wife Linda Hansel; siblings: Dennis Hansel, Wayne (Debbie) Hansel, Mary Lou (Tom) Lorenz, Robert (Stephanie) Hansel, Patsy (Garold) Vaagen, and Jerry (Denise) Hansel; brother-in-law Ron Lenz; sisters-in-law Karen Hansel and Pauline Hansel; along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Anna’Mae Hansel; brothers: James, Roger, and Daniel Hansel; sister Shirley Lenz; and sister-in-law Drina Hansel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 21, 2023, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Langdon, ND, with visitation starting at Noon. Inurnment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Langdon.