Paul G. Hanson

Paul Hanson life-long resident of rural Lake Crystal, MN, died March 30, at age 72. Cancer claimed his body, but the Lord welcomed his soul. 

Visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00pm on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Lake Crystal Mortuary with a service following at 6:00pm. Paul will be buried at Holy Family Catholic Cemetery, Lake Crystal. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to American Cancer Society. To leave a condolence for the family, visit his obituary at www.mankatomortuary.com.

Paul was born prematurely in the Mankato, MN, hospital, to Rose and Orville Hanson—and quickly proved he was a strong survivor. He lived most of his life in rural Lake Crystal, first contributing significantly on the family farm near Lake Crystal, and later, living nearby. He graduated from Lake Crystal Public High School and served our country in the U.S. Army, where he was assigned to military police duty at Frankfurt, Germany. 

The rest of Paul’s work called him to be outdoors as much as possible, including work at Crysteel, Mankato Post Office, Honeymead, Vetter Stone, and Loe’s Oil. He was especially talented with mechanics and had a knack for fixing and improving things, whether on vehicles, machinery, or household projects.  

Among his interests were snowmobiling drag racing and tractor pulls. In free time, he traveled across the U.S. to many events, competing with various modified tractors and snowmobiles. As in other areas in his life, Paul took pride in doing quality work and he earned many first place finishes in both disciplines. Other interests included travel, especially visiting mountains, sports cars – especially driving his Corvettes, and motorcycles.  And for the past nine months, Paul has enjoyed spending time with his granddaughter Grace.   She brought him immense joy, smiles, and laughter.

Survived by sons Daniel Hanson (wife Andrea Hanson) and granddaughter Grace Hanson; David Hanson, Adam Hanson; siblings Karyn Divine, Arlene Larson, Barbara Luck (husband Keith Buttleman), Alan Hanson (wife Vickie Hanson); significant other Shirley Ruby; former wife Nancy Hanson; nephews and nieces; cousins.