The family of Ralph Arnold Hanson of Eden Prairie, MN announces his passing, and invites all who knew him to remember him here.
These few paragraphs cannot hold a life, but they may carry a memory.
Ralph spent his working life as ['instructor at Flying Cloud Airport'] and held deeply to the Lutheran faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
A life of faith is rarely a life of certainty — but always one of trust.
Ralph A. Hanson
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ralph A. Hanson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Ralph peacefully passed on May 1, 2026, at the age of 86, at home with his devoted wife, Mary, by his side.
Born at home, on August 11, 1939, in Litchfield, Minnesota, to Arnold F. and Elva T. (Fritze) Hanson, Ralph's journey through life was marked by dedication, love, and laughter. His early years in Litchfield shaped him into a man with a deep sense of duty and a zest for life. After graduating from Litchfield High School in 1957, Ralph briefly attended college before discovering that his true calling lay beyond the classroom.
Ralph embarked on a remarkable journey of service, first joining the National Guard and later serving in the United States Air Force Reserve with the 934th Airlift Wing in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Assigned to the 47th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron as a medical flight technician, Ralph volunteered for multiple 90-day tours of duty in Vietnam. Serving as an in-flight care provider, often providing burn care for severely wounded soldiers, Ralph risked flights between Vietnam and Yokota Air Force Base in Japan, then to Brook Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. His distinguished military career culminated in his retirement in 1984 as a Master Sergeant (the third highest rank of enlisted members), a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country.
During his time in the Air Force Reserve, Ralph met Mary, his beloved wife of nearly 53 years. Their love story, built on shared adventures and mutual respect, was a source of enduring strength and joy. Together, they explored the world, creating lasting memories and friendships and for over 40 years, making their home in Eden Prairie, where they were active members of St. Andrew Lutheran Church.
Ralph's professional life was equally rich and varied. He found his niche at Northwest Airlines, dedicating 36 years of service. Originally aspiring to be a pilot, Ralph earned his private pilot's license with multi-engine certification and worked as an instructor at Flying Cloud Airport. Though he eventually achieved pilot qualification, a strike, and later, a heart murmur ended that dream. Undeterred, Ralph embraced new roles in customer service, where his warmth, humor, and genuine care left a lasting impression on colleagues and passengers alike. He was especially proud of his connection to the Minnesota Vikings, often serving as a point of contact for team charter travel-fueling his lifelong enthusiasm for his beloved Vikes.
A man of many talents, Ralph had an enduring passion for music. He began singing at the age of five in his church choir and later had what he considered the great pleasure of singing next to his father in the adult choir, following his confirmation. For more than 38 years, he was a dedicated member of the Bloomington Good Times Chorus. In retirement, he joyfully returned to church choir, continuing to find meaning and happiness in music.
Ralph also cherished time outdoors, particularly fishing. He spent countless summers on the water, participating in bass tournaments and supporting charitable causes. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the Don Shelby Invitational Pro/Am bass tournament, treasuring the opportunity to connect with anglers from across the country.
In his later years, Ralph reluctantly applied to be the Senior Commodore of the Minneapolis Aquatennial, doubting he had compatible skills or anything to offer to the role. To his surprise, he was selected by the committee and served as the Senior Commodore from 2017-2018; this role brought him immense pride, connecting him back to his roots in Litchfield and many other community celebrations. Ralph delighted in the opportunity to participate in several parades and ceremonies, notable town anniversaries, and events. Ralph's natural talent for connecting with people made him a true ambassador for the organization, focusing on community relations.
Even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ralph remained committed to staying connected with family and friends. Whether meeting on the deck or sharing socially distanced visits, he continued to nurture the relationships that meant so much to him.
Preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Elva Hanson; his parents-in-law, Tom and Maxine Johnson; son-in-law, Collin Buzzell; and many other family members, Ralph is survived by his wife, Mary Hanson; children, Chad (Shelly) Hanson, Kristopher Hanson, and Kirsten Buzzell; grandchildren, Brittany Hanson and Eleasar Buzzell; brother, Randley A. (Ellen) Hanson; nieces, Melissa and Karrie Hanson; and a wide circle of dear friends, former colleagues, fellow chorus members, and neighbors.
Ralph will be remembered for his quick wit, his ability to bring joy to those around him, and his steadfast devotion to family and community. His quiet strength, resilience, and unwavering work ethic defined a life well lived. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and kindness that will endure in all who knew him.
A service to celebrate Ralph's life will be held on May 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 13600 Technology Drive, Eden Prairie, with visitation starting at 10 AM.. A livestream will be available at https://standrewlu.org/. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Music Ministry or Spirit in the Pines Camp at St. Andrew Lutheran Church through the Giving tab on their website.
Huber Funeral Home 952-949-4970
