As news of the passing of Thor Hansen spread throughout the poker community on Wednesday, an outpouring of love and respect for “the Godfather of Norwegian Poker” flooded social media.

Hansen was a two-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner, a three-time Poker Hall of Fame nominee as well as both a PokerStars WCOOP and SCOOP champion.

In 2012, after a diagnosis of colorectal cancer, doctors had given him just months to live. Hansen sought treatment, beat the odds and throughout the next six years continued to be a fixture in the world of poker.

Hansen, finally succumbing to the disease, passed away at the age of 71. The poker community took time to remember him.

Poker lost a great human being, and a great player. RIP Thor Hansen #Battler #GreatPerson https://t.co/TEyfGwx0Qf

— phil_hellmuth (@phil_hellmuth) December 5, 2018

I just learned Thor Hansen, the great poker pro from Norway, has passed away. Thor was one of the kindest, most decent, most honest, most universally beloved players ever to play this game. I’m having trouble composing my thoughts. So many fond memories of this wonderful man.

— Nolan Dalla (@nolandalla) December 5, 2018

I was introduced to Thor Hansen by @AndreasHoivold. Thor was the kindest man and the love that Andreas had for him only furthered my respect and admiration.

Thor overcame unsurmountable odds a few years ago and lived his life to the fullest, we’ll miss you.

— Eric Danis (@EricDanisPoker) December 5, 2018

Thank you so much for everything, my wonderful friend, Thor Hansen! RIP pic.twitter.com/nWNDFmX88u

— Andreas Høivold (@AndreasHoivold) December 5, 2018

Thor Hansen was that rarest of things, an International Treasure.
Let’s let his family and friends know how much we all feel the loss of this lovely man.

— Barny Boatman (@barnyboatman) December 5, 2018

Rest in peace, Thor Hansen. He was like glue that could bring any group of people together and ensure they had a good time. Made multiple WCOOP final tables in his seventies, years after being given 3 months to live. What an absolute legend of the game.

— Miikka Anttonen (@chuckbasspoker) December 5, 2018

Thor Hansen was one of the most respected, beloved poker players in history. His behavior at the table was impeccable – never berated dealers, never criticized other players, & never whined about bad beats. Everyone ♥️ him. 1st WSOP bracelet winner from Norway (‘88). #icon #RIP

— Mike Sexton (@Mike_partypoker) December 5, 2018

Rip Thor Hansen one of my favorite people in poker always smiling and always nice to everyone

— Robert Mizrachi (@PokerRob24) December 5, 2018

I distinctly remember the 1st time I met Thor Hansen in 2005. He made me smile then, and every single time I saw him subsequently. Just listening to him talk made me happy. He was a true gentleman and a sweetheart. He will be missed #RIPThor

— Cliff Josephy (@JohnnyBaxPoker) December 5, 2018

Saddened to wake up to the news of Thor Hansen passing. He was a real fun spirit and a fantastic player and poker is better for having had him around. Thinking of his family and friends today.

— Lance Bradley (@Lance_Bradley) December 5, 2018

Hansen will be remembered by the community as a consummate rounder, a champion poker player and someone who helped build the game on a global scale. Moreso, as one of the good guys in the game.

Thor Hansen-great memories is right @padraigpoker. After being chip leader in an early WPT, reporter asked him, “What are you going to do with $1m if you win?” Thor said, “I’ll pay off a few debts.” Reporter said, “What about the rest?” Thor said, “They’ll have to wait.” #classic https://t.co/e1gHzvuZSA

— Mike Sexton (@Mike_partypoker) December 5, 2018

Hansen is survived by his wife, Marcella Bramwell.