Donald was born on August 19, 1936 in Battlecreek, IA to John and Alvina (Koepke) Hansen. At the age of 17, he left his family’s farm and joined the United States Air Force, where he served proudly until his full retirement in May 1975. On May 28, 1956, he married Floy Anne Rigstad (of Duluth, MN). They raised three sons, Donald Jr, David John, Dale Lee, and a daughter Deanne Lynn.
Donald, who preferred to be called Don, was a very skilled and accomplished tradesman. As a non-commissioned officer in the Air Force, he was known to be a dedicated and well-liked member in whatever detachment he was assigned. Shortly before his retirement, he achieved the rank of Tech Sergeant and the status of being a teacher of vital components in aircraft, such as the F-4 Phantom. Away from the job, he was just as hard of a worker, able to fix almost anything he set his mind to. He wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty, and he was just as willing to jump in and help out as he was to teaching others to do better.
He was a giving individual, spending his free time supporting Boy Scouts and other activities of all types, even when his sons were not directly involved. He was a warm, kind individual, always concerned with the needs of others. He seldom considered anyone a stranger. Don was a good friend.
Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Floy Anne. His father, John, and mother, Alvina, his older brother, Ronald, and younger sister Shirley. He also was preceded in death by his son, Dale Lee.
He is survived by his children, Donald Jr ( and wife Annette), David John (and wife Heather), and Deanne Lynn. He also had several grandchildren- Jonathan, Steven, Christopher, Nichole, Brandy, Michael, Elizabeth, Amber, and Emilee, plus a number of great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Roger D Hansen (and wife Kristy) of Des Moines, IA and sister Patty Nohrenberg (and husband Ray) of Omaha, NE. There are several nieces and nephews, as well.
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