Donald Kenneth Hansen

Donald “Duke” Kenneth Hansen, long-time resident of Albert Lea, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at 77 years of age. Duke was born in Albert Lea, Minnesota, in September of 1948, to Kenneth and Rozella Hansen. Pancreatic cancer took his life.

Duke grew up in Hollandale, where he developed a lifelong love for hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1966. A year later, Duke met Suzette Lynne Wright, and they were married in March of 1968. Together they built a devoted partnership of 57 years and raised two children, Ron and Keri, who were his greatest pride and joy.

A skilled auto mechanic for over 50 years, Duke earned his ASE certification. He could fix almost anything, and he engineered creative solutions to many problems that he encountered. As a younger man, Duke participated in stockcar racing, and he always enjoyed watching NASCAR racing (especially when the winner was driving a Chevy).

Duke found his happiest moments outdoors. He treasured countless fishing trips to northern Minnesota with his family, and he was an avid duck hunter. Time in the blind with his son Ron—who began hunting with him at age eight—became their most cherished tradition. They spent 49 years hunting together, including waterfowl, pheasants, and deer. Duke shared these passions generously, creating memories that will be carried on by those who loved him.

Duke is survived by wife, Suzette, son Ron, daughter Keri O’Brien (Bob), sister Carol Young (Roger), mother-in-law Sylvia Wilson, lifelong friends Donny, Irene, and DJ Jones, and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many special pets including Lacy, Hermie, Spooky, Barney, Rufus, Emmy, Sheila, Chuckie and Soot. Duke was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Rozella Hansen.

A celebration of Duke’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services, 2210 E. Main Street in Albert Lea, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Perschbacher Memorial Cancer Fund, 78369 325th St., Ellendale, MN 56026.