Hamilton "Hank" F. Ragan left this earthly world on December 28th, 2016 to spend eternity with his heavenly father.
Hank was born on November 12th, 1934 in Freemont, NE to Francis Carl and Ella Bell Ragan (Moseman).
Hank grew up in Lincoln, NE where he attended school and helped his grandparents on a small family farm. He attended Lincoln Northeast High School and later completed his GED.
Hank was a helicopter mechanic in the United States Army from 1954 – 1956, when he was honorably discharged.
On December 18th, 1959 he married his lifelong mate, Janice Louise Scharton, in an intimate ceremony in Lincoln, NE.
Hank and Jan had two children, Angela (1961) and Shawn (1964). The family lived in Lincoln until 1976, when they relocated to Ft Collins, CO, which would become their forever home.
After the Army, Hank worked at numerous jobs, to include brick laying and owning/operating a service station. After this, he spent 30 years on his passion of auto body/fender repair and paint in Nebraska and Colorado. Hank continued this work until 1991 when cancer lead him to choose a different passion. After completing a long stint of chemotherapy, he found something new to occupy his time. Over the past 24 years he crafted camelback trunks that reside in homes across the United States. This was probably his favorite "job" because each trunk was truly a labor of love.
Many happy memories were centered around family activities such as camping at Grandpa's Woods, fishing at Branched Oak, picnicking, sledding at Pioneer's Park, feeding the ducks, campfires, and much more. These activities continued over the decades with the addition of grandchildren and great grandchildren. The fun outdoor memories expanded to include beautiful locations throughout Wyoming and Colorado. He was involved with the Y-Indian Guides, started the Cornhusker Fly Fishing Club, and was an active member of the American Legion.
Hank is survived by his wife, Janice, of 57 years, children Angela Ragan-Specht (Brent Kluger), Shawn Ragan (Mary) and stepson David Beams. He also survived by 7 grandchildren Melissa Kelly (Ed), Rebecca Specht, Jessica Weir (David), Chad Specht (Melissa), Gaylen Ragan, Michael Louser (Karen), Sean Louser; 3 great grandchildren Cody and Cheyann Weir and Harper Kelly. He is also survived by Michael Specht (Ann) who was considered like a son.
Hank was preceded in death by his mother, Ella Bell Tronnes, stepfather, Henry Tronnes, father, Francis Ragan, and brother James "Jack" Ragan.
Hank attended Livermore Community Church for decades. This is where he grew to have an exceptional relationship with his Lord. He was also a member of the board and participated in numerous groups/activities with the church. His greatest wish and hope was that all of his family and friends come to know and accept Christ as their personal savior. He is finally at peace now watching over all of us.
Memorial Service with Military Honors, 11:00 a.m., Monday, Livermore Community Church, 284 W County Rd 74e, Livermore.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to the Livermore Community Church in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive, Fort Collins,