Guillermo "Bill" Hansen

Guillermo Hansen, 65, longtime resident of Kissimmee passed away. He was a prominent businessman and recognized community leader. As the founder of the Osceola Star newspaper, he dedicated his life to service to various organizations and left an indelible mark on the Central Florida community. Guillermo is survived by his wife, Yolanda and two children, Yanin and Bryan. “Memo” as he was known by his family and friends, spent his formidable years in Europe. At the age of 14, he moved to a suburb of London, England to study at Croydon College and backpack across Europe. At the ripe age of 18, he moved to Orlando and launched his first business, a travel agency company. He operated as a tour guide for groups from Mexico City and where he met his soulmate, his wife Yolanda. Soon to celebrate their 40-year wedding anniversary in September, she was the love of his life. In the late 70’s / early 80’s Guillermo became a pioneer in the central Florida Tourism Industry, an active contributor to committees which shaped the Orlando International Airport. Breaking the mold as one of the first Hispanic executives working in Central Florida’s hotels and theme parks, he was key in organizing and taking the first promotional tourism caravans to Europe, Central America, South America and Mexico. He is responsible for deregulating transportation in Florida and establishing the Florida tour operators bond to protect tourists visiting Florida. During his tourism years he owned and operated Agentur S.A. in Mexico City which was the official representative of Alamo Rent a Car, Howard Johnson’s, Ramada Inns, Amtrak, Winnebago, and the official Florida Tourism office in Mexico. His company opened the doors for many of these American companies to establish themselves in Mexico. Moreover, Guillermo was a visionary who understood the importance of bringing news to the Hispanic community in Osceola County. He founded the first bilingual media outlet in Central Florida, which has been in continuous circulation for over 30 years. His dedication and commitment to journalism have left a lasting mark on the local media landscape. In addition to his work in the media world, Guillermo was a noted business leader. He founded the Hispanic Business Council of the Osceola Chamber of Commerce, as well as renowned music and cultural events, such as Viva Osceola, Gala Osceola, Business under the Stars, and the Three Kings Day event. His vision and entrepreneurship contributed significantly to the economic and cultural development of the region. He was the founder of Casa de México in Orlando. Board member of Osceola Center for the Arts (Osceola Arts), Board Member of Parks and Recreation. He was awarded the Don Quijote Award for Excellence by the Orlando Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HCCMO). He helped establish the first Mexican consulate in Orlando. He received the Ohtli award, the highest award from the Mexican government that a Mexican receives outside his country. Guillermo also played important roles in education and tourism. He served as a trustee for Valencia College for over 12 years and as the Osceola County Commissioner of Tourism for over 20 years. His commitment to excellence and his dedication to promoting community growth were recognized both locally and internationally. In addition to his business and community achievements, Guillermo was also a lover of sports and an enthusiast for golf, soccer, and serving as a basketball coach for children in elementary and secondary schools. His positive influence on the lives of young athletes has left a lasting legacy. Beyond his professional achievements, Guillermo was an exceptional human being, a true hero to the community, a loving husband, and an exemplary father. With great sadness, we honor Guillermo Hansen, a man whose passion, dedication, and generosity left an indelible mark on our community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those touched by his kindness and leadership. Rest in peace, Guillermo, we will always remember you as a true example of success and service to others. Friends and family are invited to the attend a celebration of Guillermo’s life on Friday July 7th at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church 11:00am, Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery at 2:30pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made in Guillermo’s memory to Amigos Helping Amigos Scholarships (Go Fund Me)

Guillermo "Bill" Hansen

May 18, 1957 - July 1, 2023