Kenneth P. Hanson

Kenneth P. Hanson, formerly of Bucyrus, Ohio, lost his battle with lung cancer at the Ohio Veteran's Home in Sandusky, Ohio on October 12, 2010. He was born to Paul and Leona Hanson on January 14, 1950 in Monroe, Wisconsin. He graduated from South Wayne High School in Wisconsin in 1968, and then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps to serve his country in the Vietnam conflict. Ken was a Marine Squad Leader in the Battle of Hue City and also served as a 'tunnel rat', experiencing close combat with the Viet Cong. He was awarded a Rifle Sharp Shooter Badge, a Cross of Gallantry, and was honorably discharged on September 11, 1970, having attained the rank of Corporal. After the Vietnam War, Ken returned to Wisconsin where he was employed as a cheesemaker, until a job as a cheesemaker at the former Schrier's Cheese Plant brought him to Bucyrus in 1982. In Bucyrus, he was employed as an electrician, HVAC technician, and also worked in apartment maintenance. Ken was predeceased by his father in 1991, his mother in 1995, two sisters, Connie Ryser in 2009 and Dena Hanson in 1953, and his wife Lillian M. Slaughter. He is survived by his sister, Patricia (David) Pehl of Harlingen, Texas, and brother Wayne (Nancy) Hanson of Tucson, Arizona, brother-in-law Mark Ryser, and nieces Kathryn, Miranda and Gabrielle Ryser all of Brodhead, Wisconsin. In his later years, Ken was assisted by his friend and guardian, Eric Griebling, by his neighbor, Nancy Widman, and by the caring staff of the Ohio Veteran's Home in Sandusky, Ohio. Ken was a faithful Marine, a diligent worker, with a generous spirit and sharp sense of humor. He very much enjoyed hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities. A memorial service will be held at the Wise Funeral Home on Friday, October 22, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation to occur at the Funeral Home from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to Gideons International or the Ohio Veterans Home, Unit 1 North through the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may be left at www.wisefuneral.com. Later, private graveside services with military rites will be performed with burial at the Union Grove, Cemetery in Darlington, Wisconsin.



Visitation:

1 - 2 PM Friday Oct. 22, 2010

Wise Funeral Service



Service:

2:00 PM Friday, Oct. 22, 2010

Wise Funeral Service