In Memory – Dr. Jeffrey Hanssen (PU DVM ’71)

The College of Veterinary Medicine mourns the passing of an alumnus and longtime practitioner from Greenfield, Indiana. Dr. Jeffrey Hanssen died March 12, 2026, at Brandywine – Brickyard Healthcare Center in Greenfield. He was 71.

A native of Evansville, Indiana, Dr. Hanssen underwent multiple surgeries as a child at the Shriners Hospital in St. Louis to treat a birth defect in his hands. The surgeries later helped him to become an excellent veterinarian. After high school, he went to Indiana State University – Evansville (now the University of Southern Indiana), and then earned his Purdue DVM degree in 1971.

Dr. Hanssen owned and operated the Westwood Veterinary Clinic for 40 years, caring deeply for pets in Greenfield and their owners. He also is remembered for how he loved all things outdoors, hiking in state parks, birding, and collecting rocks. He also enjoyed reading and had an extensive book collection.

Dr. Hanssen gave back to the community by participating in the 4-H Vet Science Project and through his active involvement with the Hancock County Humane Society. Known as a very social and outgoing person, he was loved by all.

A Celebration of Life Gathering was held at the Loose Funeral Home in Anderson Monday, March 23. Contributions in Dr. Hanssen’s memory may be made to Shriners Children’s or the Hancock County Humane Society.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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