William S. "Bill" Hanson

William "Bill" Hanson, 75, of Wentzville, Missouri, passed away on March 27, 2026. He was born on February 21, 1951, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the son of Spencer and Mildred (Thiele) Hanson, who preceded him in death.

Bill spent his childhood in Fort Madison, where he was an active member of the First Baptist Church and its Boy Scout Troop. His dedication to scouting earned him the rank of Eagle Scout, an early reflection of the discipline, integrity, and service that would characterize his life.

He pursued higher education with distinction, earning a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas, followed by postgraduate studies at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. These academic achievements formed the foundation of a long and respected career as an Agricultural Formulation Chemist.

Throughout his professional life, Bill contributed his expertise while working at Rhone-Poulenc in St. Joseph, Missouri; Van Diest Supply Company in Webster City, Iowa; Ricerca Biosciences in Concord, Ohio; Gustafson in McKinney, Texas; and Bayer Crop Science in both Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, and St. Louis, Missouri. In these roles, he developed experimental compounds for testing, optimized formulations for existing products, and supported both domestic and international formulation efforts for Bayer Crop Science. He was widely regarded by colleagues as a generous, dependable professional who readily assisted anyone in need.

While living in St. Joseph, Missouri, Bill met Candace "Candy" Cochran. They were married in 1984 and shared a devoted and enduring partnership. Throughout Bill's long career, Candy supported him wholeheartedly, accompanying him through multiple relocations across several states and standing beside him through every professional endeavor. Their life together was marked by mutual commitment, unwavering devotion, and love.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was active in Toastmasters International and was a committed blood donor. He cherished time spent with family and friends at Lake Nehai Tonkeyea in Keytesville, Missouri, where he enjoyed watersports, especially waterskiing and scuba diving. A man of faith, he was a member of Hope Ridge United Methodist Church.

Bill is survived by his wife, Candy, of Wentzville, Missouri; his sister, Carla Mansheim (Tony) of Kansas City, Missouri; his nephew, Jay Mansheim (Erica) of Kansas City, Missouri; his niece, Becky Stukenholtz (Dan) of Parkville, Missouri; great nieces Addison, Caroline, Alice, and Gwendolyn; and great nephew Spencer.

He will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him for his kindness and unwavering dedication that he brought to every aspect of his life. Bill was deeply committed to his work and continued his professional pursuits until the age of 74, driven by a genuine passion for science and a desire to contribute meaningfully to his field. Through decades of devoted service to his profession, Bill leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and innovation.

Graveside Farewell Services and Interment 1:00 P.M. Friday, April 3, Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The procession will leave from Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Memorial contributions may be made to the Team Gleason Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.