Richard Milton Hanson

     Richard Hanson, age 75, of Lake City, South Dakota passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Coteau Des Prairies Hospital in Sisseton, South Dakota.

     A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Sisseton with Rev. Peter Reynen officiating. Organist will be Michelle Greseth with special music provided by Josh Anderson. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church.

     Burial will be in Sisseton Cemetery. Urn bearers will be Rod Olreud, Dale Rinas and Bruce Prins. Honorary urn bearers will be Greg Siefkes, Tim Mouw, Carson Larson, Ben Hanson, Kelly Owens, the Smear crew and the Sisseton Livestock Auction family. Military Rites will be provided by the Otto-Quande-Renville American Legion Post #50 and Fort Sisseton V.F.W. Post #3342.

     Richard Milton Hanson was born October 2, 1949 in Sisseton, South Dakota to John Robert “Bob” and Elizabeth “Betty” (Axness) Hanson. He grew up east of Sisseton on a cattle ranch and farm. Richard graduated from Sisseton High School and entered the United States Army. He was sent to Fort Benning, Georgia for basic training and then stationed in Taiwan. He earned the highest rank, SPC-5 and was positioned in radio strategic communications. He had married Ember Ward shortly before leaving for Taiwan and to this union four children were born: Brett, Heather, Troy and Sam. Following his honorable discharge, Richard returned home and began working at the Sisseton Livestock Auction; where he would work for over fifty years. He raised his family near Lake City, South Dakota.

     Richard earned a few nicknames along the way: Rich, Preacher and Dicky to name a few. He was known for a firm handshake, nicknames for almost everyone and enjoying a Windsor water. One of his favorite past times was playing cards with the sale barn crew. He loved to mow hay with the boys and help on the ranch. He always made sure there was plenty of beer in the tractors and he was always ready to get a gate if needed. 

     He had become a man of routine of late. He had a path that started with leaving the farm at 4:00 p.m. and stopping at Valley View Country Club. Next, he would head to pick up Lynneta at her place. Then they would head to Lake City Municipal together for shake-a-day. Once a week or so, he would add in an extra stop at Club Eden for the famous “Dicky Burger” which was made especially for him.

     Richard was a true cowboy- he could do it all. Roping, riding, camping under the stars, rodeoing, breaking horses and helping neighbors. He was known for his exceptional horsemanship and deep respect for the land, often helping others work cattle. One of the highlights of his life was being invited to the Custer Round Up-going sixteen times.

     He was fortunate to share a great friendship with Lynneta Fisher over the last four years. As a couple they enjoyed going to movies, dancing and sitting outside at the ranch in the hills enjoying the view together. We are very grateful to Lynneta for all the love and care that she provided to our father over these past years. She will always have a special place in our hearts.

     Richard will be remembered for his love of life and commitment to those he held dear. He was a man of faith who shared his love of God through acts of kindness and interactions with others. Richard’s patriotism was evident in his unwavering support for his country. May he rest in peace, riding the eternal ranges of heaven.

     Richard is survived by his companion Lynneta Fisher of Sisseton; children: Brett (Kelly) Hanson of Sisseton; Heather (Shawn) Bainbridge of Wheaton, MN; Troy (fiancée Maggie Steiner) of Sisseton; and Sam Hanson of Sisseton; eight grandchildren: Colter, Andra and Bryson Hanson of Sisseton; Drew and Dylan Bainbridge of Sioux Falls, SD; Mikayla Hanson of Sioux Falls, SD; and Oakley and Hank Hanson of Sisseton; two brothers: Jim Hanson of Sturgis, SD; and Bobby (Becky) Hanson of Sisseton; brother-in-law Virgil (Sharon) Schulz of Rapid City, SD; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

     Richard is preceded in death by his parents Bob and Betty Hanson; maternal and paternal grandparents; sister Debbie Schulz; sister-in-law Jan Hanson.