Jeffrey Peter Hanson

Jeffrey Peter Hanson, 31, died unexpectedly Friday, June 5, 2009, at his home in St. Paul, Minn. He was born in Milwaukee and lived in Waukesha until he graduated from Waukesha High School in 1996. Jeff was an accomplished singer/songwriter, and during his teenage years founded a band known as MIJ, which developed a large regional following. He was later signed to a recording contract by the prestigious Kill Rock Stars (KRS) label and went on to release three critically acclaimed albums of original songs, "Son" in 2003, "Jeff Hanson" 2005 and "Madam Owl" in 2008. He had recently completed tours in the U.S. and Europe.

Jeff is survived by his parents, Peter and Martha (Youmans) Hanson of Weston; his brother, Ryan C. (Jennifer) Hanson of Red Wing, Minn., and their children, Alainn, Aine and Malachy; his sister, Sara K. Hanson (Joe Elia) of Milwaukee; and his grandmother, Juanita Youmans of Waukesha. He is further survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as many friends from all over the world. Jeff will also be sadly missed by his dogs, Lucy and Cady.

Jeff was preceded in death by three grandparents, Charlie and Betty Hanson and Henry A. Youmans, all of Waukesha. He was also preceded in death by his aunt, Ann Liban of Milwaukee, and uncle, Dr. Steven Wenger of Jacksonville, Ill.

Jeff was an exceptionally gifted and loving person, with a sense of humor that endeared him to all who knew him. He will be missed beyond measure.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the St. Paul, Minn., Humane Society.

A private memorial for family and friends, celebrating Jeff’s life and music, will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 13, at Merrill Hills Country Club, W270-S3425 Merrill Hills Road, Waukesha.