Donald Eugene Hanson

Donald Eugene Hanson, 81, of Rigby, died Saturday, January 15, 2011 at the Rexburg Care and Rehabilitation Center. He was born April 7, 1929, in Rigby to Irvin Oleen Hanson and Laura Alice Christensen. He was raised and attended schools in Rigby. On October 23, 1948 he married Merlene Yvonne Sommers in Sugar City, together they had four children. His employment varied from being a ranch hand in Montana, driving produce trucks, plastering and laborer before settling on concrete contracting. Donald loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and exploring. His greatest joy was his family and he enjoyed having them with him on activities. He built a cabin in Island Park and spent most of his free time there enjoying the peacefulness and many good hours with family and friends. He is survived by a daughter, Donalene (Ray) Hammer, of Texas, sons, Doug (Tamra) Hanson, of Rexburg, Aldon Hanson, of Rigby, Lorin (Barbara) Hanson, of Colorado, sisters, Ileen (Joe) Willis, of Orifino, Idaho, Marilyn (Delbert) Walker, Luella Gardner, both of Peck, Idaho. Brother, Harold Woodworth, Irvin J. (Nona) Hanson, 16 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Laura Hanson, wife, Merlene Hanson, sister, Bernice Hatfield, brothers, Franklin Hanson and Eddie Hanson. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 20, 2011, at Eckersell Memorial Chapel, 101 West Main Street, Rigby. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday evening and for one hour prior to services, both at the funeral home.