Robert Hanson
courtesy photo
Robert Hanson
PROCTOR — Robert “Bob” Edward Hanson, 81, of Lake Mary Ronan, Proctor, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, peacefully in the home he loved. This husband, father, grandfather, avid golfer, and singer, was known by his family and friends as someone who gave of himself tirelessly and enjoyed spending time being an active member of the community.
Born on Jan. 8, 1936, in Nashville, Tennessee, he later lived in Tacoma, Washington, and other areas in the upper northwest before settling in Montana. He graduated from Thompson Falls High School and entered the University of Montana, Missoula. While in Missoula, his mother, Angie (Woodward) Hanson, taught home economics at Alberton High School, where he met one of her students, Val ( Johnson), who would not only teach him how to dance but also become his wife. Bob served in the United States Air Force from 1954 to 1958, during which time he spent stationed in Alaska. The couple married on June 19, 1959, following Val’s college graduation, and moved to Maryland where Bob worked for the federal government until he retired in 1991. He earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Upper Iowa University in 1985 while he and Val lived in Australia.
A long-time member of the Dayton and Polson school boards, Bob was much loved by the students at Dayton Elementary School who wrapped their arms around him when he visited with his wife, who volunteered there for twenty years.
Whether singing as his wife played the piano, as his son and daughter recall from their childhood, or with Valley Voices in Kalispell or numerous church choirs over the years, Bob enjoyed sharing his lifelong love of music with others. He enjoyed performances by Glacier Symphony and Chorale and Port Polson Players.
He loved his lake view home, making others laugh, and his weekly golf outings. An erstwhile photographer, guitarist, and harmonica player, he enjoyed learning new things.
Bob is predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Angie (Woodward) Hanson.
Survivors include his wife, Val; son, Greg Hanson; daughter, Donna (Geren) Mortensen; grandson, Chris (Sarah) Hanson; and countless other family members and friends.
Services have been held.
Memorial contributions may be made to Dayton School, 506 B St., Dayton, MT 59914.
Messages of condolence may be sent to the family online at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory, Polson, is assisting Robert’s family.
