Douglas "Doug" Hanson

Douglas DeWayne Hanson was born to Robert and Delores Hanson on May 17, 1954. He spent his childhood hunting and fishing with his dad and brother and continued those hobbies throughout his whole life. He married Sherry Hennessey in 1973 and welcomed daughter Shawna the same year. His daughter Christina completed the family in 1978. The family resided in Zimmerman until Doug and Sherry divorced in 1988.

In 1989, Doug married his best friend, soulmate, and love of his life, Dixie, in a small ceremony in Day, Minn. Doug and Dixie enjoyed life and traveling together until she was taken too soon from him by cancer in 1992. Doug often said even though it was too short, his time with Dixie was the happiest of his life. Those close to him know he never fully recovered from losing his soulmate. After her passing, he honored her memory by continuing to live life to the fullest, often travelling to Florida to visit his sister Colleen, walk for miles on the beach, and enjoy river fishing trips with his brother-in-law Pete. He discovered Alaska fishing and enjoyed sharing the fresh Halibut he would catch with people back home after his trips.

After retiring from law enforcement Doug moved to Sebeka, where he continued to pursue his love of hunting and fishing.

Doug passed away on October 21, 2024, at 70 years of age after a short illness. He is survived by his daughters: Shawna (Kevin) Gallus, and Christina (Travis) Simons; granddaughter, Alexandra (Stetson) Burkman; sister, Colleen (Pete) Peterson and brother Scott Hanson; as well as a niece and nephews, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and many special friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Delores; wife Dixie; and most special dog and hunting companion Sadie.

Per his wishes, no service will be held and he was cremated through Karvonen Funeral Home in Wadena. Next time you are sitting in the deer stand or casting a line, celebrate the memory of what a great friend he was.

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