Lyle Irvin Hanson

Lyle Irvin Hanson, 82, of St. Hilaire, Minnesota, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

Lyle was born on January 28, 1944, in St. Hilaire, Minnesota, to Manuel Hilman Hanson and Anna Sophia (Arne) Hanson. He was baptized into the Lutheran faith and later confirmed at St. Pauli Lutheran Church in rural St. Hilaire. Lyle attended school in Grygla and later graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.

Lyle proudly served his country in the United States Army from January 18, 1962, until his honorable discharge on February 17, 1965. During his military service, he was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, and received recognition for his exceptional marksmanship.

On January 13, 1968, Lyle was united in marriage to Gwen Haugen at Calvary Lutheran Church in St. Hilaire. The couple made their home in St. Hilaire, where they raised their three children, Kimberly, Patric, and Aric.

Throughout his life, Lyle worked a variety of occupations. He farmed, worked for Arctic Cat, where he also drove support truck for the race team, worked for Thygeson's Construction and Hartz Truck Line, and proudly owned and operated his own over-the-road trucking business. No matter where he worked, Lyle was known for his strong work ethic, determination, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Lyle was a man who enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He was lovingly known as “Popsy”. He loved NASCAR racing, watching old cowboy television shows & Judge Judy, and following the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins. He took great pride in maintaining a meticulous lawn, enjoyed tinkering on treasures others may have overlooked, attending auction sales, and sharing breakfast with family and friends. Animals seemed naturally drawn to him, a reflection of his gentle nature. He also enjoyed a cold Bud Light, a shot of Fireball, and an occasional game of BINGO. Above all else, Lyle treasured the time he spent with family and friends, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Lyle is survived by his three loving children, Kimberly Hanson of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, Patric (Amber Holtan) Hanson of St. Hilaire, Minnesota, and Aric (Tracy) Hanson of Osakis, Minnesota; grandchildren Trevor (Anna) Peterson, Tanner Peterson, Tessani (fiancé Ethan Johnson) Peterson, Ella Gust, Tristan (Gabe Peterson) Hanson, and Alex Hanson; great-grandchildren Ada, Nora, Carter, and Gauge; brothers DuWayne "Bud" Hanson, Roger Hanson, and Ricky Hanson; sister-in-law Jackie Olson; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gwen, in 2000; his parents, Manuel and Anna Sophia Hanson; siblings Harry, Dale, Margie, Dennis, and Harvey Hanson; brothers-in-law Mike Olson and Gary Haugen; sisters-in-law Ruth Hanson and Shirley Hanson; and his father- and mother-in-law, Raymond and Gladys Haugen.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with the service to celebrate Lyle's life at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. Steven Dahlen will officiate. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a 6:30 p.m. prayer service, on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Service. Burial will follow at Community Cemetery in St. Hilaire, Minnesota. military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post 117, VFW Post 2793 and Minnesota Army National Guard Honor Guard.

Lyle will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his quick wit, his love of family, and his ability to find joy in the everyday moments of life. His presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.