Raymond Kenneth Hanson, 82
Raymond Kenneth Hanson, 82, of Strathcona, MN, died on Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at his home in rural Strathcona.
Raymond Kenneth Hanson, the son of Sigurd & Hannah (Engstrom) Hanson, was born September 16, 1928 at Roosevelt, MN. He was one of eight children. He attended school at Roosevelt in Laona Township, Dist 76. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954 in the infantry during the Korean Conflict. Ray & Sonja began their lifelong partnership when they were married on October 5, 1960 in Greenbush. They lived near Moorhead for 3 years before moving to Strathcona.
He was the beloved husband of Sonja for 50 years and the father of their 3 children—Wayne (Dena) Hanson of Strathcona; Kenny Hanson of Strathcona & Anita (Joe) Laurin of Badger, MN. Grandchildren—Janna (Nathan) Lorenson & Zachery (Chelsie) Hanson & 2 great-grandchildren—Kylyn & Joslyn.
3 brothers—Edgar of Williams, MN, Laurence & Gordon of Roosevelt, & several nieces & nephews.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, 1 sister—Ethel Hecker and 3 brothers—Melvin, Alfred and Walter.
Ray was a commercial beekeeper for 50 years. He had developed a passion for beekeeping at a very young age. He spent many winters logging and was an avid trapper. He also had a great love for music and so enjoyed playing his Dobro and pedal steel guitar.
His family and friends were his pride and joy. He was a very humble person with a kind and gentle spirit.
Funeral Services were held on Sunday, September 18, 2011 in Grace Evangelical Church of Strathcona with Pastor Robert Ludwig, officiating.Special music was provided by Howard Hodne, Robin Johnson, Chris Hamness & Kay Prothero. Pat Ludwig was at the organ. Casket Bearers were Zachery Hanson, Darrell Miller, Chris & Dale Hamness, Howard Hodne, Robert & Earl Wahl. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery at Strathcona with Military Honors provided by Moen-Zimek Post 88, American Legion of Greenbush with assistance from the Minnesota National Guard. Arrangements were with Gieseke Funeral Chapel of Greenbush.
