Raymond L. Hanson

Raymond “Ray” Leslie Hanson, 75, of Osco, IL, passed away on Friday, April 18, 2025, at his home.  A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel.  Deacon Dr. Tom Wachtel and Michael Ward will be assisting the family.  Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Geneseo.  Visitation will be held from 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to the Geneseo Youth Football program and the Osco-Andover Fire District.

Born on February 14, 1950, in Geneseo, Illinois, to Carl and Mary (Yohe) Hanson, He graduated from J.D. Darnell High School in Geneseo in 1969 and attended college at Iowa Central College, Fort Dodge, IA.  He went on to build a successful career as an independent farmer for over 50 years, embodying hard work and resilience.  On December 15, 1973, Ray married the love of his life, Kristine Hanford, at First Congregational Church in Geneseo. Together, they built a life centered on family and community.

Ray’s dedication extended far beyond his farm. His contributions on the field for the “Green Machine” earned him well-deserved place in the Geneseo Athletics Hall of Fame. His athletic achievements included being named Wool Bowl MVP at Iowa Central College in Fort Dodge. For over 50 years, he poured his heart into Geneseo Little League football, serving as president and coach of the Lions. He also served as president of the Osco/Andover Fire District Trustees for over 30 years, leaving a lasting mark on his community.

Beyond his leadership roles, Ray’s passions included his love of muscle cars, his membership at Geneseo Country Club since 1973, and his unique distinction as an inaugural member of the "Osco Ski Team." He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including watching classic Western movies, boating in the Ozarks ("Captain Radar," as he was known), teaching children to ski, and sharing fishing and hunting trips with his friends. He was a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and Bulls.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Kristine Hanson of Osco, IL; children, Clayton (Jackie) Hanson of St. Paul, MN, and Seth (Mary) Hanson of Pleasant Valley, IA; grandchildren, Henry and Theodore, Finnegan and Parker Hanson; sisters, Sharon Hoaglund and Mary Christine (Larry) Ward.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Mary Hanson; sister, Carol Hanson Klavon; brothers-in-law, Charles Hoaglund and Russell Klavon; and two nephews, John Hoaglund and Kyle Klavon.