Derek Hansen

Derek “Chip” Andrew Hansen was born April 13, 1970 in Spokane and died suddenly March 8, 2014 in Toppenish. He graduated from Liberty High School in 1988, where he played both rugby and football. Law enforcement ride-alongs during this time confirmed his interest in becoming a police officer. Chip attended Bellevue Community College and Central Washington University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Justice. He served in the US Army for 3 years including 6 months in Haiti during a political upheaval. After the service, he graduated from the Police Academy and served as a police officer both in Zillah and Wapato for nearly 15 years during which time he earned many honors for his work. Chip is survived by his beloved son Colt Hansen, fiancé Heather Coleman, parents Hugh & Sally Hansen, sister and brother in law Britt and Craig Wills, nieces Brooke and Audrey, nephews Marshall and Riley, and faithful and constant companions Moose and Nacho. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting with friends and coworkers, but most importantly with his son. He volunteered as a youth league rugby coach and was a devoted family man. A Celebration of his life will be held Friday, March 21st at Grandview Nazarene Church at 11 AM. In his honor, donations may be made to the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial or the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Valley Hills Funeral Home in Zillah is in care of the arrangements. Online tributes can be left at www.valleyhillsfh.com. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Derek Hansen, please visit our flower store.