Richard Franklin Hanson Sr.

Richard Franklin Hanson, Sr.
December 3, 1939 – November 23, 2025
Richard Franklin Hanson, Sr. ("Dick"), age 85, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025. Born on December 3, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, Dick was the beloved son of the late Franklin H. and Ruth M. (nee Christiansen) Hanson.
Dick was married for 51 wonderful years to his devoted wife, Deborah (née Clercx). Together, they built a warm and loving family. He was the proud father of four children: Richard (Kathleen), Kathy (Michael) Mandzen, Tim, and Eric (Yelena). He cherished being "Grandpa" to sixteen grandchildren-Emily (Jack) Doron, Billy (Jessica), Katie (Robby) Lucas, Tommy; Erin (Ryan) Martin, Andrew (Ben Severino) Mandzen, Matthew Mandzen; Kiley, Connor, Jake, Camryn; Natalie, Wyatt, Barett, Eva, and Jacob-and delighted in his three great-grandchildren: Charlie and Annie Doron, and Reese Martin.
Dick is survived by his sister, Ruth (the late Ronald) Bigelow, and was preceded in death by his siblings Marilyn (the late Jim) Bez and John Hanson.
A proud U.S. Army veteran, Dick spent three years serving his country, including time stationed in Korea and France. In 1965, he began a 25-year career with Sara Lee Bakery, rising from plant operations to overseeing the company's early computer-controlled automation systems. In 1990, he joined Abbott Laboratories, where he worked in computer application software validation. During his professional life, he earned his degree from Northeastern Illinois University-an accomplishment he greatly valued.
Above all his achievements, Dick's greatest joy was his family. Watching his children grow, succeed, and raise beautiful families of their own filled him with immeasurable pride. He often said that none of it would have been possible without his wonderful wife, Deb.
A lifelong athlete, Dick's love of sports began on the basketball court, where he was a local star in high school. After joining the Army, he continued to shine, proudly representing his units on Army basketball teams in both Europe and Korea. Later in life, golf became his passion. He cherished every round played with family and friends, staying active for decades through his beloved golf leagues-always quick with a smile, a story, and a competitive spirit that made him a favorite playing partner.
Dick and Deb made their home in Deerfield for 48 years, creating a place filled with warmth, laughter, and countless memories. They loved spending their spare time enjoying their children's many athletic events, while golfing and taking short trips and cruising with friends and family.
Dick will be remembered for his devotion to family, dedication to hard work, love of athletics, and his generous spirit. His legacy lives on in all those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
A visitation for Dick will be held on Monday, December 1st, from 4-7 PM at Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home, 1787 Deerfield Road, Highland Park, IL 60035.
A Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 2nd, beginning at 11 AM at St. Norbert Catholic Church, 1809 Walters Ave, Northbrook, IL 60062.