Merton John Hansen passed away in Rochester, Minnesota on February 3, 2024, he was 88 years old.

He was born to Merton and Elsie Hansen on September 3, 1935 in St. Paul, Minnesota.

His family moved to a farm near Deer Park, Wisconsin where he grew up. Mert attended Amery High School and continued his education at UW River Falls, graduating in 1958. He and Joanne Paulson married on August 30, 1958 at East Immanuel Lutheran Church. After graduating, Mert began a lifelong career in the agricultural industry, first working for Doboy Industries in New Richmond as a chemist. Mert and Joanne raised three children, Sandra, Mark and Betsy. Eventually, the family moved to Southern Minnesota with Rochester becoming home for the past 40+ years.

While working in the Turkey industry as a consultant, Mert had the unique opportunity to purchase an island on Lake of the Woods near Sioux Narrows, Ontario. He, Joanne, and the kids enjoyed time together there where Mert was well known for his fishing skills. They often welcomed friends and family to join them and a regular fishing companion on the boat was the puppy, Schnookums.

Mert’s outgoing nature made everyone a friend. He enjoyed visiting with people and finding common connections (he always could!). Travel was another thing that Mert enjoyed. Russia and the Arctic Circle, the Holy Lands, England and Scotland were just a few of the destinations that he reached. While in Israel, Mert was able to participate in believer’s baptism in the Jordan River- an important event in his faith journey.

Mert is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joanne; his children, Sandra, Mark and Betsy; his daughter in law, Melanie and three grandchildren, Gavin, Matthew and Maia.

Funeral services will take place at 11:30 am on Friday, February 9, 2024 at East Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Amery. A visitation will take place from 10:30 to 11:30 am prior to the service at the church.

A lunch will follow the service. Burial will take place at the East Immanuel Cemetery.

Last Update: Feb 05, 2024 7:03 pm CST