C. Wade Hanson, A Memorial;

              cA Memorial
C. WADE HANSON
I remember the interview in 1938 when Wade came to our office just prior to his
graduation from the University of Oregon. Serious, motivated and intelligent, he
fitted the pattern of one who would excel in his profession. He did excel.
When Wade was young, his father died. His mother taught school to provide for
her family. His personal earnings sustained him at the University. Five years after he
joined the profession he became a partner in the local firm which merged with
Touche, Ross, Bailey & Smart in 1956. At the time of his death he was partner in
charge of the Portland office.
Ethically and morally honest, intensely loyal, intellectually motivated,
professionally competent, his contribution to his profession and to his community
was outstanding. He was active for years in retailing as a member and officer of the
Retail Trade Bureau and as a director of the Portland Chamber of Commerce. He
was active in the Y.M.C.A. and was president for two terms. His leadership and
companionship were sought by others. Because of his judgment and understanding,
men sought his counsel on business and personal problems; once he was
persuaded to become guardian for a client's son who needed a friend.
Wade and Carolyn formed an enviable comradeship with Richard and Carol,
their children. With love, companionship and persuasion, he motivated and
inspired them. Their boat was a family institution for vacations and year round
recreation and was a tool for building a beautiful and enduring family relationship.
He was an exemplar as husband and father.
With knowledge of an incurable illness, his courage in the closing months of
his life was inspirational to all whose lives he touched. Never giving up, never
complaining, he stood shoulders above the crowd. He passed away last April.
His pen is dry. His appointment book is closed. His desk is cleared. We, who
have been his associates, have been enriched by his sterling qualities of character.
The profession and his community have advanced because of his contributions.
Our lives are better for having Wade as our friend.
by Richard C. Stratford
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