Harold Spencer Hanson

Hanson, Harold "Harry" 1932-2023 Harold Spencer Hanson, 91, of Edina passed away peacefully November 30, 2023, with his wife, Elaine, by his side and Sinatra's "My Way" playing in the background. Harry will be remembered for his upbeat personality, charm and friendly nature. Everybody loved Harry, who had a knack for making others feel important. He instinctively knew just the right thing to say. When anyone would ask, "How are you doing, Harry?", He usually replied, "Great!" Harry grew up in Huron, SD. He was an only child with a large extended family. He graduated from Huron High School in 1950 and from the University of SD in 1954 along with his lifelong buddies, Paul and Gene. After graduating from college, Harry and his wife, Shirley, taught in Rossie, Iowa for one year. In 1955, he joined the US Army . During his nine years of service, he met his lifelong friend, Jack Strom, who reconstructed the following account of Harry's army aviation career: Harry earned his wings at Fort Rucker, AL, served in the 25th Infantry Div, Aviation Co Hawaii, followed by 2 years in the 1st Infantry Div, Fort Riley, KS. He became helicopter qualified at Camp Wolters, TX. After completing a tour of duty in Viet Nam, he returned to the US, finishing his career at Fort Benning GA. His favorite general used to request that Captain Hanson fly him to the Pentagon for meetings. Elaine noted that Harry loved flying so much that he carried his aviation license in his money clip until the day he died. Harry retired from the Military in 1962 and moved his young family to the Minneapolis area where he began his career as a stock and commodites broker with Merrill Lynch. He eventually focused on trading commodities, finishing his career with various firms at the Minneapolis Grain Exchange. Harry absolutely loved going downtown each day! Harry was widowed in 1969. Harry and Elaine were married in 1971 when Elaine became an instant mother to Scot, Lani, and Jill, ages 15, 13, & 11. A legacy of great family memories was created throughout the next 52 years. Harry adored his family. His granddaughters, Adell and Elise were his pride and joy. He was a beloved grandpa and great grandpa. Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Della Hanson, a sister, Lois, who died before he was born, his wife, Shirley, his daughters, Jill and Lani, and Lani's husband, Mark . Harry is survived by his wife, Elaine, son, Scot, daughter-in-law, Cynthia Steece, granddaughters, Adell Hargreaves (Corey), Elise Kelly (Nick), and great grandsons, Jack and Davy Kelly and JJ Hargreaves. Special thanks to Pastor Kurt Kalland, and Pastoral Care staff at Mount Olivet for their loving care for Harry's family through some very difficult times. Thanks also to Dr. Melissa White and Nurse Michael at Fairview Southdale Hospital for their compassionate and comforting care. A celebration of Harry's life will be held 11 AM Thursday, December 14 with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, 5025 Knox Ave. S. Mpls. To attend the funeral virtually please go to https://mtolivet.org/livestream/ Memorials preferred to Mount Olivet Lutheran Church: Pastoral Care. washburn-mcreavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

Harold Spencer Hanson

March 25, 1932 - November 30, 2023

Tributes

Harold Spencer Hanson

March 25, 1932 - November 30, 2023

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