Leon Stanley Hanson

Leon Stanley Hanson, age 85, of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026, under the compassionate care of Hospice.

Leon was born on February 16, 1941, in Badger, Minnesota, to John and Selma (Branvold) Hanson. He graduated from Badger High School in 1959 and, in 1961, married the love of his life, Ardys. Together they shared 65 years of marriage filled with love, friendship, travel, card playing, bowling, and making family memories camping. Leon was meticulous with his garden and lawn. He was so precise trimming the hedge even bringing out his measuring tape to make sure it was even.

Known for his strong work ethic, Leon worked at the creamery, Arctic Cat, Peters Meat, and Fleming Companies before owning and operating Dakota Brokerage later acquired by Hockenberg Newburgh until his retirement at age 65.

One year into retirement Leon was diagnosed with lung cancer. As treatment impacted his mobility Leon and Ardys took joy in the simple things of life. Enjoying the Minnesota Summers by the lake. Sitting outside on the porch having an afternoon cup of coffee and Ardy's baked goods. They were often spotted at McDonalds sharing coffee and a sandwich or treat.

He was a loyal Minnesota Vikings and Twins fan and enjoyed attending Twins spring training games in Fort Myers.

In his later years, Leon faced health challenges, as his needs increased, he and Ardys moved to Lincoln Park Assisted Living, and later Leon received care at Oak Crossing.

Leon will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his kindness, his work ethic, and the love for his wife. He told Ardy's "I Loved you from the first time I saw you" making sure she knew what she meant to him. Ardys took great care of Leon for as long as possible until she needed more help. A true love story.

Survived by his wife Ardys, Son Jeff Hanson and Megan Riewer, Brad (Lexi) Hanson, Daughter Kathy (Curt) Nelson, Grandchildren Danielle Gravelle, Cole (Jen) Gravelle, Jackson Gravelle and Great Granddaughter Iris Gravelle; and many other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents John and Selma Hanson, Mother and Father-in-law Hardin and Alice Hodne and many family members that welcomed him home.

The family requests memorials be made to HIA Hospice and Trinity Lutheran Church.

Funeral will be at Trinity Lutheran in Detroit Lakes at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 18, 2026 with visitation one hour prior. His final resting place will be Hegland Lutheran Cemetery in Strandquist, MN.

LIVESTREAM LINK:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKvAjaY8N8M&pp=0gcJCRMMAYcqIYzv