Richard Hanson

In Loving Memory of Richard David Hanson

April 8, 1948 – June 16, 2025

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Richard Hanson, devoted husband, proud father, loving grandfather and a man who cherished his family and friends as he did the soil he farmed. Richard passed away Monday, June 16, 2025 at Appleton Area Health, with the love of his life by his side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Richard David Hanson was born April 8, 1948, the son of Leonard and Arlene (Youngren) Hanson in Montevideo. He was baptized on June 6, 1948, and confirmed on May 5, 1963, at Granite Falls Lutheran Church. Richard grew up on his family farm with four sisters, whom he always looked out for.

During his lifetime he earned humorous nicknames including, “Carp” “T-Bird” & “Julio”. He graduated from Granite Falls High School in 1966, and continued his education at Dunwoody College, graduating in 1967.

In 1966, Rich served his country in the United States Army National Guard and was honorably discharged in 1974.

Rich was united in marriage to his Everything, Deborah Margaret Gilbertson on January 5, 1974, at Nativity of Mary Church in Bloomington. They started their lives together in the Milan area where he labored tirelessly for his family. Rich & Debbie were blessed with three sons, Mike, Matt, and Tony.

Rich worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator for multiple companies but his calling was owning his own farm. He loved raising cattle, working the land and especially enjoyed haying. He passed on his passion of all things farming to his Sons (and Grandson).

He was a member of the Milan American Legion and Kviteseid Lutheran Church. He was a devoted family man and enjoyed spending time with his loved ones.

He immensely enjoyed going for Camaro cruises to the casino with his best Girl, razzing friends and family with his clever and witty humor. He was a loyal friend who stayed in touch with all of the great people he met throughout his life.

Rich is survived by his wife Debbie; sons, Mike (Becky) of Appleton, Matt (Missy) of Monticello, and Tony (Mariah) of Alexandria; grandchildren, Levi (Peyton), Morgan, McKenna, Elly, Raegan, Eden & Elise; sisters, Judy (Jerry) Wangsness of Glenwood, Joyce (Gene) Iverson of Granite Falls and Cheryl Christensen of Granite Falls; in-laws, Wynn (Dennis) Burg, Don Gilbertson, George (Jonay) Gilbertson, Peddi (Greg) Leary, Leah (Jay) Redfield and Sue Gilbertson (sister-in-law), several nieces, nephews and leaves behind a wide circle of extended family and friends who carry pieces of his laughter and courage in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard & Arlene Hanson; sister, Charlene; mother & father-in-law, Robert & Patrica Gilbertson; sister & brothers-in-law, Mary (Wayne) Johnson and Bob Gilbertson.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, June 27th at 11:00 am at Kviteseid Lutheran Church in Milan with lunch proceeding the service. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 26 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Kviteseid Lutheran Church with a prayer service at 7:00 pm. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. The service will be livestreamed on the Kviteseid Lutheran Church facebook page.  Arrangements are with the Wing-Bain Funeral Home.

Richard David Hanson lived fully, loved deeply, and laughed often. His strength guided us, his humor healed us, and his love will remain with us always.