Ronald (Ron) David Hansen, 96

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald (Ron) David Hansen, who peacefully left this world at the age of ninety-six on August 9, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born on February 13, 1929, to Mark and Gertrude (Bindel) Hansen, he lived a long and remarkable life fueled by hard work, kindness, and passion. He was a proud father of four sons – Jack (Karen) Hansen, Jeff (Stasie) Hansen, Jon Hansen, and Tim (Amy) Hansen – and a loving grandfather and great grandfather. His greatest joy was found in his growing family, with eight grandchildren; Alex (Caitlin) Hansen, Stephanie (John) Felton, Emily (Ryan) Wamsley, Kyle (Sarah) Hansen, Audrey (Zach) Heine, Megan Hansen, Carter Hansen, Jack Hansen – and nine great grandchildren; Clara Hansen, Jack and Charlotte Felton, Knox Hansen, Anna and Owen Wamsley, Adalyn, Rylie and Weston Heine.

Ron’s life was rich! He grew up with a strong work ethic and deep respect for the land. After graduating from Woodstock High School in 1947, he entered the world of dairy farming, dedicating the next 43 years to working the land, caring for his herd, and building a livelihood rooted in hard work and perseverance. When he was not working on the farm, Ron could often be found giving his time and talents to the community he loved. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church, and previously the Greenwood Township ASC Committee and the McHenry County Youth Council. He also shared his voice and profound knowledge of farming, serving 8 years on the Board of Directors for the McHenry County Farm Bureau and 21 years on the Board of Directors for the McHenry County Fair, ten of which he functioned as President.

Ron had a knack for making people laugh with a well-timed quip, and he remained both witty and delightfully determined until the very end – a combination that made him uniquely him and endeared by everyone who knew him.

Ron is preceded in death by his spouse, Ruth (Geske) Hansen, both parents, brothers Donald, James and Robert, Granddaughter Siri Hansen, and long-time kind and caring friend, Barbara Carroll. He is succeeded by his 2 brothers, William Hansen, Larry (Sheila) Hansen, and 1 sister, Dorothy Nichols, four sons, eight grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will cherish his memory.

A celebration of Ron’s life will be held on Saturday August 16, 2025, at First United Methodist Church in Woodstock, IL, with visitation from 9-11am followed by a church service at 11am. Ron will be laid to rest at McHenry County Memorial Cemetery, and all are invited to attend lunch at First United Methodist Church following the burial.

Ron leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and service – a life well-lived and well-loved. His memory will be carried forward in the hearts of all who knew him.