RAPID CITY | Ernest W. Hansen, 87, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014, at Rapid City Regional Hospital. Ernie was born July 5, 1927, in Sioux Falls, to Peter C. Hansen and Latisha Hansen. He grew up in Sioux Falls and graduated from Washington High School in 1945. Upon graduation, he served in the U.S. Army before attending SDSU playing football for the Jackrabbits. He graduated with a civil engineering degree. He married Lavonne G. Steineke on Aug. 20, 1949. They lived briefly in Kansas City, MO, Pierre, and Mitchell before moving to Rapid City in 1959. He worked for the City of Rapid City from 1961-1992 as an engineer in various departments including engineering, sanitation, water, urban renewal following the Flood of 1972, and airport management during the development of the Rapid City Regional Airport. Ernie had a great love for the Black Hills and enjoyed doing many outdoor activities; hunting, fishing, jeeping, camping, and gardening were some of his favorites. After retiring he built a cabin in Silver City where he enjoyed spending time with his family. Because of his gentle teasing and involvement in their active lives, he was an adored grandpa. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Lavonne; and his only sibling, Donald. Grateful for sharing his life are his five children: Craig (Carrie), Rapid City; Mark (Daphna), Sioux Falls; Robb (Louise), Rapid City; Peter, Rapid City; and Sheri Born (Jon), Chaska, MN; 12 grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home. Services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, with the Rev. Chris Roussell officiating. Interment will be at Mountain View Cemetery.