Help Stephen J. Hanson's Family Continue His Legacy

Stephen J. Hanson was more than a hairstylist—he was a brother, a father, a grandfather, a true artist, a mentor, and a force of light in the beauty industry.

On January 20th, 2025, Stephen was taken far too soon, at the young age of 64. For the last few years, he focused on accommodating his large clientele at his business, Blondeterauge, in the South End of Boston. Stephen was a color master and researcher, and he had created a safe, alternative lightening system that would allow hair to be lightened without any bleach or damage. He prided himself on keeping his clients’ hair healthy and maintaining his integrity. In his last weeks, he spoke often of his legacy and wondered about his impact on others. He had wanted so badly to get his formulation out into the world. He knew it would completely revolutionize the industry and bridge the gap between color and bleach. While Stephen was never able to make this business venture come to fruition, his daughters hope in the future that they can share that with the world.

Beyond his craft, Stephen’s greatest legacy is the love he poured into his family, friends, and the many causes close to his heart. In honor of his memory, his daughters wish to celebrate his life with extended family in Minnesota. Stephen was born there and was a huge Vikings fan his whole life. Getting everyone together at a Vikings game to love on him and remember him would be so special. Additionally, they would like to continue Stephen's spirit of giving by making donations to Boston Children’s Hospital, Pine Ridge Reservation, and Hair’s How School of Modern Beauty—places that meant so much to him.

Stephen's spiritual journey was deeply personal but was reflected in his connection to The Pine Ridge Reservation, the Waldorf School of Pine Ridge, and all Native peoples. Stephen had a deep respect for tradition and the elders. His dream was to visit the reservation, and unfortunately, that was never possible. What was possible was his yearly financial support to the school.

Every year, up until 2020 when restrictions were put in place, Stephen would drop off stuffed animals, movies, toys, and books to the children on floor 9 North at Boston Children’s Hospital. He had been doing this since his daughter Tessa passed away in 1995 from an inoperable brain stem tumor.

Stephen was extremely passionate about seeing talented and motivated hairstylists receive the training they needed to be confident and successful. His daughters went to hair school at Hair's How School of Modern Beauty in Wakefield, MA. Stephen quickly connected with the owners of the school, Lisa and Linda, and began dedicating his time to help teach students on a regular basis.

If you feel called to help Dasha, Khari, and Daisy carry on Stephen's legacy, please consider making a donation.