David L. Hanson, age 70 of Monroe, died Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at home. He was born on May 16, 1953 in Monroe, the son of Freeman and Irene (Johnson) Hanson. He graduated from Monroe High School in 1971. He joined the Air Force in the seventies and worked on planes as a maintenance technician. When he returned from the Air Force he worked as a carpenter with his father and continued the business on his own. He was very meticulous and organized. He enjoyed working with his hands creating and building.

    Dave was an avid flower gardner and always planted flowers that would attract his favorite humming birds. He was also known for his garden gnomes, which he gave a new coat of colorful paint every spring.

     He was all about sports, whether it was NFL, College or High School. He cheered on his favorite teams: Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badger Football, Basketball, Hockey and Volleyball; the Milwaukee Bucks and Brewers. Dave also enjoyed cheering on his hometown Monroe Teams. This gave him much joy.

     He is survived by his mother, Irene Hanson of Monroe; daughter, Jessie Hanson of Janesville; granddaughter, Bailey Thompson; siblings: Susan (Brian) Hoffmaster of Monticello, Jeff (Sherrie) Hanson of Knoxville, TN, and Sara (Bill) Ritschard of Monroe; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, brothers: Larry, and Ronald in infancy.

     Dave was a fighter and battled many cancers in his lifetime. In his thirties he had colon cancer, in his fifties he had prostate cancer, and in his late sixties lung cancer. Daves determination, optimism and strength were fierce, but this was the battle Dave was not going to win.

     A Celebration of David’s life will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023 from 3 to 6 pm at Nett’s Sports Bar, 1301 17th St. Monroe. Shriner Hager Gohlke Funeral Home is assisting the family.