EVERETT — Nearly 70 years ago, an Everett college student happened to land a job as a messenger at The Everett Herald to pay for his studies.

The student, Larry Hanson, didn’t leave The Herald until his retirement as president, publisher and CEO 45 years later.

Working his way through nearly every department in the newsroom, Hanson led the paper through a slew of changes as technology advanced and ownership shifted.

Those who worked with him agree that Hanson made The Herald a family. He was an influential figure outside The Herald as well, volunteering and leading philanthropic efforts throughout the county and state.

Hanson died Thursday. He was 87.

From messenger to a decades-long career

Hanson was an Everett native. Born in 1937, he grew up as the youngest of six children near th

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