James Alton Hanson

James Alton Hanson of Hickson, ND passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at Bethany on 42nd with his family by his side. James was born on August 13, 1931 to Berger and Rosalie Hanson of Harvey, ND. He was raised on the farm where he resided until his move to Bethany. James went to a country school near Hickson through the eighth grade and then began working on local farms. He worked at the Hickson Grain Company for two years prior to joining the Marine Corps in 1952. He was in “E” Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines Division and was involved in the US Atomic Bomb Tests in Nevada in 1953. James was en route to Korea when the Armistice was signed. His service also included time spent in Japan and Hawaii.

Upon being discharged from the Marines he returned to his family farm near Hickson where he was involved with farming to this day. In 1954, he married Lavonne Marlys Braton in Barnesville, MN. Lavonne and James resided in Hickson until purchasing the farm he grew up on. Lavonne and James raised 8 boys and 1 girl on this farm. During this time he also worked for the Hickson Equity Elevator. He then became a grain inspector for the North Dakota Grain Inspection, later becoming Chief Grain Inspector. During this time he also worked for Gjervold’s Motors.

In later years he became a partner in the ownership of North Dakota Grain Inspection service until his retirement in 1997. After retiring he continued to farm and enjoyed restoring his 1931 Ford Model A, having owned a similar one as his first car. Over the years he continued to enjoy classic cars and tractors.

James was an active member with the Hickson Lutheran Church serving in various capacities. He also enjoyed many volunteer activities, including an active board member for the Lower Wild Rice and Red River Cemetery Board serving as Sexton for several years. James was a member of Sons of Norway since 1996 and was part of the lefse making crew. He also served on the Pleasant Township Board as Treasurer and Supervisor for many years. James was an active member with the Hickson Senior Citizens serving as Treasurer on the board.

James is survived by his daughter, sons, grandchildren and great-grand daughter. James’ children: Tim (Carol) of Morris, MN; Jeff (Susan) of Barnesville, MN; Becky, Joel (Amber), Brad (Lisa) all of Fargo, Mike of West Fargo, ND, Gregg of Hickson, ND, and Ryan (Heather) of Moorhead, MN. James’ grandchildren: Jason (Shiloh) of Mapleton, ND, Alicia of West Fargo, ND, Jessica and Brandon, Andrew and Kaitlynn, and Jayden all of Fargo, ND. James’ great-grand daughter: Brielle of Mapleton. James is also survived by his brothers Rich (Sherry) of Fargo and Don (Ronda) of Watertown and in-laws DeLoris, Leona, Sam (Joyce), Robert (Donna), Janice, Beverly T and Beverly B. James also had numerous nieces and nephews as well as his special friend Betty.

James was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lavonne, son Scott, brother John and sister Beverly.