A. Leona Hanson, 91, died Saturday, August 27, 2011 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND.

A Memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, September 2, 2011 at Johnson Funeral Service, Thief River Falls, MN with Reverend John Golv officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Newfolden, MN.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service on Friday at Johnson Funeral Service.

Leona Knutson was born December 23, 1919, at Gatzke, MN, the daughter of Anton and Clara (Taie) Knutson. She attended country school in Gatzke.

On September 5, 1940, Leona was united in marriage to Clarence Richard Hanson.  They made their home in rural Newfolden, MN and in 1965 moved to Thief River Falls. While living on the farm, Leona was a member of Bethania Lutheran Church. In 1963 Leona became employed at Oakland Park Nursing Home. She retired from there after 25 years of full-time work and 4 years part-time, where she served as a Dietary Supervisor and Cook.

Leona was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church, the Sons of Norway, Legion and VFW Auxiliary's, a 4-H leader and member of the Home Makers Club. She enjoyed reading and visiting with family and friends. Leona was very proud and supportive of her grandchildren, whom she loved very much.

She is survived by children: Gerald (Kathy) Hanson, Newfolden, MN, Sharon (Dick) Hawkins, Clinton, WA, Bruce (Jan) Hanson, Lacy, WA and Donald (Marsha) Hanson, Moorhead, MN; grandchildren:

Bret (Cheryl) Hanson, Barry (Shari) Hanson, Chad (Sonja) Hanson and Corey (Melissa) Hanson, Mary Hawkins and Jennifer Hawkins, Stacy (Paul) Scott, and Richard Hanson; 17 great-grandchildren and brother, Douglas (Betty) Knutson, Seattle, WA

Leona was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence in 1966; her parents, a sister, Doris and brother, Clarence Knutson.

Family condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com

ORGANIST: Diane Johnson

SOLOIST: Van Swanson

SELECTIONS: "Amazing Grace" and "In The Garden"

CONGREGATIONAL HYMN: "Old Rugged Cross"

HONORARY PALLBEARERS: All of Leona's Grandchildren, Great-grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews