Edwin "Ed" Hanson

1933 - 2025

Edwin "Ed" Hanson

September 23, 1933 - December 24, 2025

Edwin "Ed" Theodore Hanson, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, passed peacefully on December 24, 2025, at The Classic in Altoona, Wisconsin, at the age of 92.

Ed was born on September 23, 1933, to Inez (Wiggins) and Edwin T. Hanson Sr. in Eau Claire. He grew up helping his father at their family cafe, where he learned the fine art of flipping cakes and making donuts. He graduated from Eau Claire High School in 1951. At 18, he enlisted in the Navy serving as a third-class petty officer electrician's mate assigned to the USS Hewell LSD cargo ship during the Korean War. During his enlistment, Ed was stationed in Okinawa, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. He was very proud of his service to our country.

Upon returning home, he married Janet M. Olson on November 1, 1958. They were married for 67 years. Ed worked for Northern States Power in Eau Claire for 33 years. The majority of his career was spent in Substation Maintenance, then as a system dispatcher. He retired at the age of 57 and, as a result, he and Janet were able to enjoy many trips together and with friends, while spending winters in Key Largo and Gulf Shores. He was active with the local VFW Post 305, volunteering with Veteran's Day, Memorial Day, and Honor Guard events, along with many pancake breakfasts.

Ed enjoyed fishing, hunting, dancing, spending time at the lake, and escaping Wisconsin winters. He was known for his sense of humor and quick wit. He loved working in his shop where he created many masterpieces with his woodworking talents. He shared much of his carving artwork with family and friends as well as donating several pieces for local fundraisers.

Ed is survived by his wife, Janet, his three children, Kurt (Judy) Hanson, Shari Hanson, Keith (Ann) Hanson; grandchildren, Kailey Hanson, Weston (Megan) Hanson, Kristina (George) Chahine, Olivia (Derek) Mroczenski; and one great granddaughter, Ruby Hanson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin T. Sr. and Inez Hanson; twin brother, Edgar, who died shortly after birth; and sister, Shirley Zuehlke.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 11 a.m. to noon at St. John's Lutheran Church, 1804 Highland Avenue, Eau Claire, followed by a brief Celebration of Life, and ending with inurnment for family at Forest Hill Cemetery in Eau Claire with Military Honors conducted by VFW Post 305.

Online condolences may be shared at www.lenmarkfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church or VFW Post 305.

Ed's family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at The Classic and St. Croix Hospice, who provided care and support for Ed during his last year.