Robert Hanson (Updated)

Robert Hanson, age 83, of Willmar, MN passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024 surrounded by his family. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, August 29, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Olivia with Rev. Joe Steinbeisser as celebrant. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the church on Thursday. Private family interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery in rural Blomkest. Arrangements are by Dirks-Blem Funeral Service of Olivia.

Robert is survived by his daughter; Terri Hanson Berg (Joe) of Chanhassen; grandchildren, Justin Berg (Mikaela) of St. Bonifacius and Kaila Ratelle (Michael) of Chattanooga, TN; six great-grandchildren; sisters, Doris Bjork of Willmar, and Alice (Art) Johnson of Willmar; brother, Richard (Mary) Hanson of Willmar; brother-in-law, Jerome Clouse of Forest City, IA; sisters-in-law, Sharon (Loren) Koll of Long Prairie and Lucy Clouse of Hutchinson; and many nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Elaine; parents, Maynard and Marion Hanson; father and mother-in-law, Vincent and Cecilia Clouse; brother, Bill (Mary Anne) Renstrom; brothers-in-law, Ellsworth Bjork, James Clouse; sisters-in-law, Eunice Clouse and Carol Clouse; and niece, Karen Theel.

Robert Maynard Hanson was born December 29, 1940, in Willmar, MN, to Maynard and Marion (Renstrom) Hanson. He was a 1958 graduate of Olivia High School and served his country in the United States Army Reserve. Robert was united in marriage to the love of his life, Elaine Clouse on September 14, 1963, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Olivia, MN, where they were active members throughout their marriage.  He and Elaine lived in rural Lake Lillian until 10 years ago when they moved to Willmar.

Robert began farming with his brother Richard in 1960 as Hanson Brothers. Over the years, they expanded to include Hanson Turkeys.  Robert was well-respected in the farming community and never truly retired. Even after the active farming ended, they continued to grow the business. Robert went to the office every day, enjoying visits and coffee with neighbors and friends.

Robert was a jack of all trades and could fix anything and would lend a hand to anyone. He was strong and never complained, facing challenges with quiet resolve. In 1975, he pursued his passion for flying and obtained his private pilot’s license. Robert also enjoyed motorcycling, hunting, playing the accordion, and playing cards with family and friends. Summers at the lake with his family were among his favorite times.

Above all, Robert was a loving husband, a role model father, an exceptional grandfather and a loyal brother and friend. He was a man of integrity and compassion, a gentle soul with a caring heart, and a mentor to many. His name and legacy will carry on. Robert will be deeply missed and remain in our hearts forever.

In remembrance of Robert’s life and in lieu of flowers the family asks that any charitable donations be made to The University of Minnesota, Sarcoma Cancer Research Fund or St. Aloysius Catholic Church of Olivia.

Blessed Be His Memory