Jan Birger Hodne (aka ‘Pappa’) lived his life with joy and laughter until he passed on September 13th, 2019 at the too young age of 78. His life began in Oslo, Norway on December 18th, 1940. His mother Dagny (Johnsen) and his father Birger Hodne raised him between the city of Oslo and the town of Lillesand, where his heart was always happy and he continued to visit with his family throughout his life.Jan came to America to study Electrical Engineering at the University of Denver in 1960, where he was also on the cross country ski team. It was there that he met the love of his life, Lois (Hitzler), with whom he shared 54 amazing, adventurous years – raising their children, traveling, volunteering, skiing, fishing and acting as the pillar of the Hodne family. Together they traveled to Norway, annual trips to Florida and many trips to Lake Tahoe.Jan was blessed to have a wonderful family that loved him fiercely. His daughter Susie and her husband Breck Overall, and their children Annika and Ridge, enjoyed traveling with Pappa to Norway, spending time swimming and boating with him in Lake Tahoe (where they live) and traveling “home” toColorado to share cherished family time. His son, Erik and his wife Gerry (Shimirak), and their childrenGunnar, Bridger and Teagan, shared many adventures with their Pappa in Colorado where they skied and fly fished in Winter Park, attended school and sports events and shared many family meals. Erik and Pappa took memorable fishing trips to Alaska and traveled to Norway with the boys to share in the family history. The entire family was so blessed to be able to go to Mexico to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Jan and Lois just a few years ago, and many trips to Florida where the grandkids enjoyed Siesta Key with their grandparents. Pappa was a man that put others before himself in every endeavor. The people that knew and loved him are from far and wide. He welcomed all with his vibrant personality, his great sense of humor and his sincere interest in learning more about everyone he encountered. He surprised many with his humor and “YES DEAR – UFF DA” speech at both of his children’s weddings. He worked in the telecommunication industry for years, but struggled with using his cellphone. His laugh was contagious, and his smile lit up the room. He was happy to volunteer and served the National Sports Center for theDisabled for many years, as well as Ski for Light and the Sons of Norway. He would truly be someone who would lend a hand to anyone in need. His spirit was kind, his heart was full and his passion for life brightened the lives of all he touched.This amazing man, who traveled from Norway to Colorado, created a legacy for his children and grandchildren to follow. Be proud of who you are, work hard, learn from every situation, celebrate every moment, see the best in those you love, always take time for a cup of coffee and a chat, and give yourself a quiet moment to breathe deeply and enjoy PEACE. A Celebration of Life service, officiated by Pastor John Larson, will be September 29th, 2019 at 1:00PM at Horan and McConaty located at 5303 East County Line Road, Centennial, Colorado 80122. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ‘Jan Hodne Memorial Fund’ at the Grand Foundation which supports many of the causes in the Winter Park area to which Pappa dedicated his time . Please go to: https://grandfoundation.com/Donate or email Megan Ledin at megan@grandfoundation.com .