Ralph E. Hanson, age 85, of Monroe, died peacefully on Sunday, June 29, 2025 at SSM Hospital in Monroe. Ralph was born on August 27, 1939 in Lafayette County, the son of Myron and Mayme (Ingwell) Hanson. He graduated from Argyle High School in 1957 and married Jean L. Clark on May 14, 1961 at the Adams Lutheran Church. Ralph and Jean farmed in the Argyle and Dayton areas from 1964 until moving to New Glarus in 1972, and to Monroe in 1976. Ralph drove semi-truck hauling Wisconsin product to the west coast for Pirkle Freight Lines. He eventually bought his own truck and continued west coast trips with Pirkle. After selling his truck, Ralph finished his career with Delta Transportation and Crete Carrier Corp, retiring in 2006. After retiring, Ralph loved spending time with his family and grandchildren. G-Pa enjoyed his spot on the end of the couch.
He is survived by four children, Terry Hanson of Sturtevant, WI, Brian (Dawn Wunschel) Hanson of Juda, Brenda Kallas of Portage, Kevin (Jenny Flick) Hanson of Sun Prairie; eight grandchildren, Tyler (Katie) Hanson, Alyssa (Kyle) Cessna, Ryan Helmeid, Chance Helmeid, Serena (Kelton) Heinemann, Miles Hanson, Jeanna Miller, Jaylee Miller; three great grandchildren, Annalise Cessna, Ellis Cessna, Rylee Hanson; sister, Dorothy Dammen; brother, Jim (Rita) Hanson; sisters-in-law, Cathy Hanson, Donna Douglas; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean, in 2014; parents; an infant son; sister, Darlene Hanson; brother, Bruce Hanson; father-in-law, George Clark; mother-in-law, Mabel (Schwitz) Clark; brothers-in-law, Donald Dammen, Walter Douglas; sister-in-law, Barb Hanson; and nephew, David Dammen.
Ralph resided at Graceland Manor since the fall of 2022. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Jody and her team for the loving and family-like care they provided. The residents and staff will miss his morning shenanigans.
As per Ralph’s wishes there will be no visitation or funeral. A private burial will be held at a later date. The NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, Monroe, is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.newcomerfuneralhome.net
