Obituary of Gail Wiggins Hanson

The family of Gail Wiggins Hanson would like to announce his sudden passing at home on April 18^th, 2025. Gail was born in Williams Lake BC May 15^th, 1937, in the old log hospital to a pioneer family with deep roots in the Cariboo. Working for his grandfather and uncle as a ranch hand in his younger years, Gail then became an equipment operator and tugboat operator in the Horsefly area until the mid 60s.

Gail met Nancy as a grader man on the Black Creek Road and were married in 1964. In 1970, Gail took a job at Weldwood Sawmill where he worked until retirement. Gail was known for his many mines and being an unofficial historian to the mining community of the Cariboo.

Gail told many stories about the history of Cariboo over the years. He never met a stranger. Gail and his wife Nancy happily lived out the rest of their lives on their place south of Quesnel, where Gail continued to make friends and influence people.

Gail is predeceased by his parents Thelma and Ray Hanson, wife Nancy Hanson and daughter Polly Hanson. He is survived by his daughter Jody (Darrell) Blackmore of Quesnel BC, sons Ray (Tina) Hanson of Prince George BC, and Jerry (Dana) Hanson of Quesnel BC. Also, by his 5 grandchildren Steven (Kerianne) Blackmore, Holly (Jesse) Day, Rayden Hanson, Sheldon Hanson, and Rowan Hanson. He also has 4 great grandchildren Kaillei O’Brien, Elias, Noah, and Johnathan Blackmore. He leaves behind his siblings Nada Morgan of Kamloops BC, Harvey (Pat) Hanson of Williams Lake BC, and Beth Johnston of Kamloops BC, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.