Kenneth Lyle Hanson, age 81, of Wolf Point, MT passed away Wednesday, September 23, 2009 at Valley Health Care Center in Billings, MT surrounded by loved ones.
Kenneth was born to Chris and Mary (Springer) Hanson on February 15, 1928 in Wolf Point. He grew up and attended schools in Sand Creek, McCone County. The family moved into Wolf Point in 1949. He enlisted in the US Army in 1951 and served in the Korean War until his discharge in 1953. He returned to Wolf Point and spent some time working at the railroad unloading box cars and also at Clayton Memorial Chapel. He then worked for Rathert and Schreiber Ford garage for 35 years. Following his retirement he helped many people with their small businesses, and was willing to help neighbors with anything. He always said it is better to give than to receive.
Kenneth married Joan Wolf on June 17, 1956 in Wolf Point. They were married for over 30 years and divorced in 1989.
Kenneth was a lifetime member of the Wolf Point VFW and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church.
Kenneth loved life. He enjoyed music and playing songs with his harmonica and accordion. The joys of his life were his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and friends. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and walking in the outdoors.
Kenneth is survived by his daughters, Bonnie Riley of Billings, Ann (Eric) Wolf of Northbend, OR, Vickie (Rocky) Collins of Reedsport, OR, Jolene Fasthorse of Great Falls, MT; his sons, David (Carol) Hanson of Butte, MT and Tim Hanson of Spokane, WA; 18 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Dolores Perry, and Ruth (Don) Smith both of Great Falls.
He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Cindy Fritz, brother Clayton Hanson and sons-in-law Randy Riley and Martin Fritz.
Visitation will be held Sunday, September 27 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel in Wolf Point. His Funeral Service will be Monday, September 28, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wolf Point with Rev. L. Jay Reinke as officiate. Interment will follow with Military Honors at Greenwood Cemetery, Wolf Point. Memorials may be sent to: Bonnie Riley P.O. Box 21102, Billings, MT 19104. Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel of Wolf Point has been entrusted with the arrangements.