John Eric Hanson

John Eric Hanson, 75, Mayville, ND, formally of Hope, ND, died Thursday, May 18, 2006 at Manor Care Health Services, Fargo, ND. John was born February 6, 1931, in Finley, ND to Arthur and Edith (Erickson) Hanson. He attended country school, and graduated from Portland High School in 1948. John was the student manager of the basketball team. In 1949 he went to the School of Agriculture at the University of Minnesota. He worked on the home farm and wintered in California with his sister Eunice where he worked in an aircraft factory. In 1952 he joined the army. While in Germany, he was a tank commander. The name of his tank was ‘Diablo,’ which means “Hell on Wheels.” He was married June 1, 1957 to Darlene Brend. They moved to Hope, ND where John farmed. Together they had three sons, Paul, Rick, and Brian. Around 1980 John's health problems began. At that time the family had moved to John's parents farm near Portland, ND. In 1986 they moved to Mayville, ND. John moved to Manor Care Health Services, Fargo, ND in May 2003. John was an active member of his church where he taught Sunday school and Confirmation. He was also active in the American Legion for 52 years, the 40-8 Eagles, and the VFW. John was elected to the position of First District Commander of the North Dakota American Legion, and served for two years. John was a very hard worker and very strong willed. He enjoyed farming, especially horses and cattle. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was very much liked and respected by his communities. He is survived by his wife, Darlene, Mayville, ND; three sons, Paul (Kristen), Portland, ND, Rick (Robyn), Mayville, ND, and Brian (Susan), Portland, ND; ten grandchildren, Lindsey, Amber, Monica, Derek, Kelsey, Jordan, Curtis, Brandon, Jason, and Kayla; siblings, Ken (Arlene) Hanson, Minot, ND, Carol (Orland) Niemeier, Buxton, ND, Eugene (Connie) Hanson, Edmunds, WA, Ellen (David) Sundberg, Fergus Falls, MN, and Richard (special friend Janet) Hanson, Lisbon, ND; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Eunice. FUNERAL SERVICE: Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at 1:30 PM at Perry Lutheran Church, rural Portland, ND. VISITATION: Monday, May 22, 2006 from 5-7 PM at Baker Funeral Home, Mayville, ND and one hour before the funeral service at the church. BURIAL: Perry Cemetery, rural Portland, ND.