Donald Hanson

On Monday, October 16, 2023, Donald Hanson passed away at his home near Erdahl at the age of 71 years.

Donald James Hanson was born on November 9, 1951, in Fergus Falls, MN, the son of James and Violet (Ellingson) Hanson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Erdahl Lutheran Church. Donald graduated from Evansville High School in 1970, then Alexandria Technical College in Carpentry, before returning to the family farm near Erdahl to begin his farming career.

Donald and Charlotte Peters were married at Zion Lutheran Church on November 19, 1977, during a bad snowstorm, which left people stranded at the wedding.  They raised five children near Erdahl on a farm. They continued farming on the Hanson home farm, where they raised hogs, beef cattle, along with grain farming. Donald remained involved in farming until his death. Donald was very proud of his family, calling them his greatest achievement.

Donald was a faithful member of the Erdahl Lutheran Church, then became a member of the Peace Lutheran Church. He was an active member serving on the church council, as well as other duties including filming the service. Donald proudly served on the Ashby Equity Board of Directors for many years, often attending meetings ready with a joke.

As well as farming, Donald enjoyed horseback riding, a variety of sports, playing cards, music and singing in front of others. Over the years, he also enjoyed watching high school wrestling and kayaking. Donald had a passion for motorcycle riding joining in many benefit rallies. He also loved visiting with people whether at family get-togethers, events, or someone just swinging by the farm.

Donald is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Charlotte: four children, Travis (Michelle) Hanson of Elk River, Doyle (Katie) Hanson of Elko New Market, Bruce Hanson of Big Lake, and Beth Hanson; five grandchildren: Cora Skelton, Will Skelton, Nathan Hanson, Amy Hanson and Brody Hanson; mother Violet Hanson; brothers Neil (Elaine) Hanson of Sauk Rapids, Gene (Darla) Hanson of Elbow Lake, Robert Hanson of Elida, Ohio, Daryl (Pam) Hanson of Fergus Falls; sister Joyce Hanson of Evansville; and by numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father James Hanson; infant sister, Joan Hanson; brother Jerald Hanson; and his son Dallas Hanson.

Visitation will be on Friday, October 27 from 5-7 pm at Glende-Nilson Funeral Home Ashby, MN. Memorial service will take place on Saturday, October 28 at Peace Lutheran Church Ashby, MN at 11am. There will be a 1-hour visitation prior to the service. Please join us after the service to share memories of Donald and enjoy some refreshments.