Laray M. Hansen (1902-1989) was a return missionary that collected material related to the opera during his time on the mission.
Blanche McBeth Hansen was married to Laray M. Hansen and performed in plays and operas.
Laray M. Hansen was born in Payson, Utah, February 22 1902. He married Blanche McBeth in 1925, after a two year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Germany. The mission was from May 1922 (he was endowed in the LDS Temple 1922 May 24) to June 1924. During these years, he accumulated postcards and a collection of books, reflecting his interest in the opera. He also abundantly and consistently communicated with McBeth, who was living in Payson and Provo, Utah. The two were married 1925 May 7, and the marriage was sealed in the Salt Lake City LDS temple on 1925 June 11. They had two daughters, JoAnn and Betty. Laray died 1989 June 3.
Blanche McBeth Hansen was born 1904 March 4 in Payson, Utah. Her parents were William Edson Mcbeth, and Eva Elizabeth Loveless. She met Laray M. Hansen in the Payson schools, where she performed in plays and operas. During the years documented, she communicated with many friends and suitors, most profusely with Hansen.
From the guide to the Laray M. and Blanche McBeth Hansen papers, 1921-1925, (L. Tom Perry Special Collections)
