TOMAH-
John proudly served his country in the Navy from 1955 to 1959, an experience that shaped much of his early life. Following his honorable discharge, he embarked on a career as an electrician, completing his apprenticeship in Marshfield. He was united in marriage to Joan Jensen on May 20, 1961, and they later divorced but still remained great friends. In 1966, he settled in Tomah, where he founded the Hanson Electric Company, which he owned and operated for many years. His professional affiliations included membership in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).
A man of faith, John was a proud member of Peace Lutheran Church, where he found spiritual solace and a sense of community. His spirit of service extended to volunteering in many capacities including at the local Tractor Pull, the Lions pancake meals and with hospice, as well as being an active member of the Lions Club, Tomah City Park & Rec department, Shriner hospital driver, and sponsoring numerous men's and women's softball teams.
John's love for bowling and curling was matched only by his love for his family. His grandchildren and family were the center of his universe, and he cherished every moment spent with them. John's kind, thoughtful, and spirited nature made him a beloved figure in the lives of all who knew him.
He is survived by his son, David (Cynthia) Hanson; his grandchildren, Jessica (Jason) Buckli and their daughters, Austynn and Addelyn, Jenna (Stephen) Schmidt and their son, Raymond, and Joseph (fiancée, Madeline Oliver) Hanson; his sister, Susan Degner; sisters-in-law, Marilyn Hanson and Marion Dehlinger; his former wife, Joan; and multiple nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his son, Michael, grandson, Joshua and his siblings, Larry Hanson, Delores (Glen) Beckman, Marian (Lloyd) Kottke, and Darrel Dehlinger.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, October 21, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at the Peace Lutheran Church in Tomah. Pastor Dawn Lindberg will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow in the Mount Vernon Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for a visitation on Sunday, October 20, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Visitation will also be held on Monday, October 21, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Tomah Lions Club, Peace Lutheran Church, or a nonprofit of your choice
The Torkelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
