Donald Hanson,81 year old of Clarissa, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

A funeral in his honor will take place on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Shepherd of the Valley Church in Clarissa at 11:00 AM with Kali Christensen officiating. Visitation will take place at Shepherd of the Valley on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and will continue on day of the funeral, one hour prior at the church. Burial will immediately follow at Woodman Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Clarissa United Methodist Church.

Donald was born on October 5, 1943, in Bertha, Minnesota, to Martin and Blanche (Walburn) Hanson. He spent his early years attending a country school near Clarissa before continuing his education at the public school in town. After graduating high school, Don studied engineering for a year at the University of Minnesota before returning home to help on the family farm. Don’s hardworking led him to start his own business, Don’s Gravel, through which he completed numerous projects throughout the local area.

Over the years, Don held many roles—from driving school bus to serving on various local boards, always contributing to his community.  Don fell in love with Carol Swanson and fully embraced the life they would share together, including her children. On April 19, 1980, they were married. Not long after they bought the Hanson Family Farm on County Road 20 in Clarissa, MN where they built a life grounded in love, hard work, and strong values. Don and Carol spent many years side by side, milking cows and building a home together. After retiring from farming, Don and Carol moved to town, where they spent their time attending their grandchildren’s sporting events, fishing, camping, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Don looked forward to going up town to have coffee with “the boys” and treasured the time spent in fellowship and laughter. Don was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church, where he played a vital role in the congregation, serving as treasurer, president, and chairman of the board over the years. His faith was a guiding light in his life, and his presence was a blessing to many. Don was known for his many conversations, he could strike up a friendly chat with anyone, anywhere. He cherished meals with his family, especially cooking venison stroganoff or grilling and had a sweet tooth for Carol’s baking, including her strawberry pie and apple bars. Don’s life was a testament to kindness, community, and strength; he wasn’t one to complain. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol, Children Dennis (Thia) Sales of Henning, MN, Kelly (Adam) Prather of Eagle Bend, MN, Kenny (Tammy) Sales of Albany, MN, and Bruce (Chris) Sales of Burtrum, MN, 16 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, siblings, many nieces and nephews and friends.