Clarence “Friendly Fred” Hansen

Clarence “Friendly Fred” Hansen

May 22, 1932 – May 20, 2023 

Founder of Nu-Trend Homes – Survived by 3 children: Don (Laurie), Dan (Janet), Doug; 7 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Sharon Hansen.

Visitation begins Saturday July 1, 2023, at 11:00am with a Memorial Service at 12:00pm and a luncheon to follow, all at West Center Chapel.  

Clarence F. Hansen, better known as Friendly Fred, passed away May 20, 2023, at the age of 90. Born May 22, 1932, to Fred and Clara (Meyer) Hansen in Battle Creek, IA, Fred grew up on the family farm, graduating from Battle Creek High School before enlisting in the Army. He was sent to Korea as part of the 45th Infantry Division Thunderbirds, driving ammunition trucks supplying the front lines.

After the war, Fred moved to Omaha, NE with just a few dollars but plenty of ambition. He drove a truck for the Ash Grove Plant in Louisville, NE and worked for Johnny Baxter selling cars before starting Nu-Trend Mobile Homes in 1967 with Donna (Earl) Hansen Leece, first located at 1308 N. Saddle Creek and then relocating to 6303 L Street.

Fred was active, both personally and professionally. He was president of the Nebraska Manufactured Housing Association and Business Breakfast Club. He loved Nebraska football, Creighton basketball and especially horse racing. Fred rarely missed a day at the Aksarben Racetrack, owning several racehorses of his own over the years.

Fred moved to Phoenix AZ, operating Nu-Trend Auto & RVs for many years. Health concerns brought him back to Omaha, but those who knew Fred knew how tough he was, and he fought through illness, a severe burn incident and COVID in typical Friendly Fred fashion! Fred was larger than life, enjoying the many years the Lord gave him!

Fred leaves behind three sons, Don, Dan and Doug, along with seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.