Daniel Benjamin Hanson, age 36, passed away after a lengthy illness on January 13, 2026.
Daniel was born and raised in Danville, New Hampshire, a place that shaped who he was and always remained part of him. In recent years, he made his home in McLean, Virginia, while staying closely connected to his family and his New England roots.
Daniel was exceptionally intelligent, with a sharp, disciplined mind, a love of thoughtful debate, and a dry, incisive wit. He valued education and approached learning not as an achievement to collect, but as a way to better understand the world and the people in it. Daniel attended Calvary Christian School in Derry, New Hampshire from Kindergarten through twelfth grade, where he graduated as Valedictorian. He continued on to Grove City College, triple majoring in Economics, Politics, and Philosophy, and later went on for post graduate studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology — a testament to both his intellectual range and depth.
What truly set Daniel apart was his ability to use his intellect in service of connection. He was a gifted debater not because he sought to win arguments, but because important conversations mattered to him. He believed in educating others on complex ideas he fully understood through information and spirited conversation, and he had a rare talent for helping people with differing views move toward common ground — or at least toward understanding — always with kindness, patience, and respect.
Beyond his intellect, Daniel was fully human and remarkably generous with his time, resources, and care for others. He found joy in simple comforts — a lifelong affection for Elmo, a fondness for the television show Friends — and in bringing people together. He was passionate about cocktail making and known for hosting lavish, themed gatherings where friends felt welcomed and celebrated. An avid international traveler, Daniel delighted in experiencing other cultures, ideas, and places.
Daniel also had a profound love for manatees, a passion that reflected his gentle heart and concern for vulnerable beings. He supported manatee conservation through frequent donations and spoke often of his admiration for these peaceful animals — a quiet but meaningful reflection of who he was.
Daniel believed in inclusion, dignity, and love. He was previously married to a husband whom he loved deeply, and that love remained an important part of his story. He cared profoundly about people, especially those struggling with depression — a battle he understood personally. His empathy was real and hard-earned, and it shaped how he showed up for others with honesty, compassion, and courage.
Raised in the Christian faith, Daniel’s family takes comfort in the belief that he is now at peace in heaven with Jesus.
Daniel is survived by his loving parents, Loralyn (Kimball) Hanson and Douglas Hanson of Sandown, New Hampshire; his sisters Kristina Wagnitz of Atkinson, New Hampshire and her family, Jaclyn Freeman of Plaistow, New Hampshire and her family, and Mindy Moutoux of Pataskala, Ohio and her family; and his brother Joshua Stone of Flagstaff, Arizona, along with his husband. Daniel was also a beloved uncle to three nephews and four nieces, who will carry his humor, curiosity, and love with them always. He was a cherished son, brother, and uncle whose absence will be felt by all who loved him.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday January 31, 2026 from 10 – 11:30am in the Calvary Bible Church, 145 Hampstead Rd, Derry, NH with funeral services to begin at 11:30am. Burial will be in the Spring in Center Cemetery, Danville. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Daniel’s honor to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, designated for manatee conservation — a cause and a place that brought him great joy.