Gerald W. Hanson

Gerald “Jerry” W. Hanson, 87, died from complications of COVID on January 19th, 2021 at Pondera Medical Center.  He was born February 5th, 1933 in Fargo, North Dakota, the son of Clarence Paul and Katherine (Breitbach) Hanson.

Jerry graduated from Fargo High School in 1950.  Following graduation, he served with the US Army during the Korean War.  He returned from the service and married Geraldine “Geri” Akason on July 31, 1954.  They resided in various towns in North Dakota and Eastern Montana, finally moving to Conrad in 1971.  They were married for 45 years prior to Geraldine passing in 1999.  Jerry worked most of his career as a Ford automotive technician and parts manager.  He retired from the Conrad Implement dealership in 1995.  Jerry then established his business, Hanson Refrigeration.  He continued to work until fishing and golfing became his main interests.  Even though he was “retired” he was still doing occasional refrigeration work for local establishments because he “hated warm beer”.  Jerry was a lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan and worked diligently each week on his Fantasy Football League commissioner duties.  He was also an avid reader and loved gardening.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife; infant son, Ronald Wayne Hanson in 1960; and brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Shirley Hanson of Minnesota.

He is survived by his children, Teri (Dock) Smith of South Carolina, Lynn (Ken) Newmiller of Conrad; Craig (Linda) Hanson of Noxon; Fran (Jeff) Hardee of Missoula; and Patti (Jamie) Hutton of Conrad.  He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.

A graveside with military honors will be held June 18 at 3pm at Hillside Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to Pondera Healthcare Foundation.