Jeff Hanson

jeff hanson

Jeff Hanson, 37, Fargo, ND died Friday, October 11, 2013 as a result of a motor vehicle accident near Battle Lake, MN. A memorial service and celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at Boulger Funeral Home in Fargo on Wednesday, October 16. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 followed by a prayer service at 7:00 P.M.

Jeff was born in Harvey, ND on January 31, 1976 to Vicki (Hoffard) and Larry Hanson. They moved to Fargo where Jeff attended Roosevelt School and graduated from North High in 1995. He was currently employed as a driver for FedEx in Fargo. He also worked for Camrud-Foss Construction in Moorhead for 15 years.

Jeff married Denise Brady and they were blessed with two beautiful children, a daughter, Maddison Violet and a son, Hunter Tim.

Anyone who knew Jeff will tell you that his children took precedence over anything and everything. The “perfect day” would have been teaching the kids how to properly bait their hook and sharing in the excitement of catching a fish no matter how big or small. He had a passion for fishing from the time he was a little kid himself. He loved hunting with his best buddies. He was an avid Bison fan. He was an emergency medical technician and volunteer fireman when he resided in Mapleton and once risked his life to rescue motorists during a blizzard on Interstate 94. Jeff would want to be remembered as that pal who made you laugh. He loved life and he also loved Halloween. Most of all, he loved his children more than anything. He will be remembered as a devoted father and son.

Jeff is survived by his beloved children, Maddison and Hunter; mother, Vicki Hanson; loving sisters, April (Mel) Quistorff and Chelsey Hanson; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Larry and grandparents Harold and Violet Hanson, Edward Hoffard and Dorothy and Quinten Anderson.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials. A memorial fund has been set-up:   JWHanson Memorialc/o Fargo Public Schools Federal Credit Union415 4th St. NFargo, ND 58102   

Please make checks payable to J W Hanson Memorial.

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  1. Rocklin CaliforniaVickie and family,
    I am one of your sister Penny’s close friends. We have known each other since about the seventh grade.We have always been there for each other. I was there for Penny as she told this incredibly sad story. My heart could feel her heart breaking as she related a story that was almost unbearable for her to tell.
    I am so sorry for your unimaginable loss. I know that in the hours and days ahead, God will hold you in the palm of his hand and the many people who loved and adored Jeff will comfort you.
    As I read through all of the messages, I could tell that you raised a kind, gentle, loving man who became a wonderful father. I hope that your heart is filled with pride for a job well done. No one can ever take this away from you.
    You will be in my prayers.
    Bonnie Mikkelson
    Sacramento, CA
    formerly of Velva, N. Dakota

  2. Phoenix AZ
    Jeff Hanson is one of those rare people that you come across in life that can always put a smile on your face. I was truly honored to have him as a friend. My thoughts and prayers go to Jeff’s family.

  3. Harvey ND
    Vickie, our deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your dear son, Jeff. Thoughts and prayers to you for God’s strength to get you through each day. Peg & Leon Gisi

  4. Layton UtahYour tragic loss of Jeff weighs heavily on our hearts. I hear fishing is good on “The Big Pond”! You will be missed but you will be remembered.

  5. Cincinnati OhYou don’t know our family and we don’t know your family, but my parents who live in Alexandria, were the first ones at the accident and called 911. Our family wants to extend our sympathy on your loss. It sounds like Jeff was an awesome guy and you are in our thoughts and prayers.
    Our prayer is that God will grant you strength to get through this difficult time.

  6. Mapleton ND
    Jeff was a member of the Mapleton Volunteer Fire Department and Mapleton Park Board before moving to Fargo.
    No words can describe the loss the children, parents, & family has to endure, but many people are sending their sympathy to all.

  7. Harvey ND
    This message is for Jeff’s mother, Vicki Hanson. I just heard the news about Jeff and I am so sorry. I do not know how to get in touch with you Vicki but I can not even imagine the loss you are feeling. I haven’t seen Jeff since he was very young but the picture of him shows a very handsome man. May God comfort you and the rest of your family in this time of loss.

  8. fargo n.dakVickie there are know right words to say or use at a time like this I think we always question “why”??? God must of needed a very special person with a beautiful smile an lots of talent so he called on Jeff. He was just in the resturant a couple of days ago with his kids an i don’t think u could of found a prounder Dad or someone who loved his mom like Jeff did. God has a plan for all us an i know he has one for you and the kids. I also think Jeff knows that those kids will be in very good hands with a wonderful grandma to help guide an take care of them. If you need anything or we can help you in anyway please ask. from all the staff at Mexican VILLAGE.

  9. Vicki,
    I am so sorry for your loss and what you must be going through. I hadn’t spoken to Jeff in too long, but I still think of him as one of my best friends. You seemed quite overwhelmed at the funeral, so I kept my distance. I don’t have the words to say what I want. Jeff is one of the few people I have ever know that would do almost anything he could to help a friend, and I don’t have a doubt that even after no talking to him for 2 years that he would have been there for me in a heartbeat. I will morn him forever.

  10. Fargo ND
    Vicki, we were so sorry to hear of Jeff’s passing. We will never forget what a fun babysitter he was, as a teen! He knew how to entertain and care for kids and therefore became a great father to his own children. We are keeping you and your family in our hearts and prayers.

    Peg and Davis

  11. Fargo North Dakota
    Vicki,
    My heart is breaking for you and your family. Words cannot describe how sorry I am for your loss, the loss no parent can imagine experiencing. I hope you find comfort in your friends and family that surround you. Take care my dear friend.

  12. Barnesville MN
    Vicki and Family,

    I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Jeff. No one every knows when something as tragic as this will happen. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Jody Krauth

  13. I am truly sorry for your loss. May you find comfort from Gods promise to “swallow up death forever” and to “wipe away the tears from all faces” (Isaiah 25:8

  14. Hartford, SD I am a Sanford Employee from Occupational Medicine in Sioux Falls. I was sent the information about Jeff from my business manager. While I never had the opportunity to meet Jeff or any of his family, what I have read about him and my heart tells me he was a wonderful person and a son/father to be proud of! I, like Jeff, enjoy fishing and agree that it’s not about the size of the fish, but just the joy/thrill of catching the fish. The next time I go fishing, I will think of Jeff and that connection we have despite having never met each other. My prayers and thoughts go out to all of you at what must be a very difficult time. May GOD hold you in the palm of His hands! With prayers and love, Shelley S

  15. Fergus Falls MN
    I was so sad to hear of Jeff’s passing. I have many fond memories of growing up with Jeff. There was never a dull moment when he was around! His sense of humor, smiles, laughter and especially his kind heart won everyone over. My heart goes out to his family and especially his children. Sending many prayers for comfort.

  16. Plymouth MN
    Vicki – I am so, so sorry to hear of Jeff’s passing. It doesn’t surprise me one bit to read that Jeff became a wonderful father and that his children were the light of his life. When I knew him as a teenager, he was a fun and fantastic babysitter for Adam and a wonderful young man that I trusted with my own precious son. My heart goes out to you and to your family. I hope that Jeff’s legacy of his beautiful children comfort you in the days ahead. Thoughts and prayers to you – Karen Frigen

  17. Battle Lake MN
    Jeff was a great guy with a great attitude, one of those people you looked forward to seeing everyday. Even though our visits were brief we still managed to cover a lot of ground during that time. You could tell his passion was his children and he loved the time he spent with them. If on the rare occasion Jeff was either hurried or having a bad day, all you had to do was ask about his kids and he always got this bigger than life smile on his face and it seemed like the world stopped for a moment so he could tell you what they were doing that weekend. We lost a good man and I know he will be missed. My deepest heart felt sympathies to his family and especially his children.

  18. Jeff and I grew up together. It took a few years longer for me to catch up to Jeff and Scott who were already friends because I came from a different elementary school. Anyways, from the beginning of us hanging out together the bond never stopped. The three of us ran together, grew up together, looked out for each other, loved like brothers, fought like brothers and are a close knit family to this day. Our kids are also all similar in ages. All great kids. Jeff was a great family man and would do anything for friends and family. He would drop everything and come help you if you needed a hand with something or were going through something and just needed a friend. I think Jeff, Scott and I have probably lived the life of three people each by now, each of us. If that makes any sense. We’ve done so much, experienced so much, been through so much. But damnit this wasn’t supposed to happen! There’s still so much left to do. Jeff, you are SuperDad to Maddy and Hunter. They love you more than anything. And I know how much you love them. None of us were ready to let you go so early. I know you’re here, but it’s just so hard when we can’t see you. It’s just damn hard. We all loved you so much. There are a lot of people really hurting right now. I miss you Jeff. I’m so sorry Vicki.

  19. Cottage Grove MN
    Vicki & family…
    Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

  20. west fargo north dakotaOh Vicki, No words can express how we are feeling right now. All we know is, we are so fortunate and proud to have known Jeff and had gotten to see what a great man and father he had become.

    Jeff will be forever in our hearts and prayers. We will miss him but we have all the great memories of him to share.

    Sylvia and Russ Baumgardner

  21. Scottsdale AZ
    I did not know this young man, however my thoughts and prayers are with the children and all of the family. He will be greatly missed I’m sure. God Bless You.
    RIP Jeff.

  22. max ND
    Vicki My thoughts are with you. Jeff was a fun guy. The last time i saw him was at Brian graduation. I hope the best for you and his kids.

  23. Hackensack MN
    We want to share a story of our flaxen-haired nephew when he was age 6 or 7. We three were out on the lake fishing. Jeff did not like touching leeches so Charlie baited his hook. After a time, Charlie lightly tapped Jeff on the head with the tip of his fishing pole. “It’s important for a fisherman to learn to put on his own bait.” Determined, Jeff managed the challenge. We continued to fish. Suddenly, Jeff leaped off his seat. The boat rocked. As I grabbed the waistline of his pants to steady him, he reeled in furiously and hollered, “Oh jesus, I think I got one.” To this day we still laugh about this sweet boy going for a catch and invoking the name of the most famous fisher of men. He had great enthusiasm for the simple joys in life. Jeff was easy to love.

    Charlie and Penny Swanum

  24. Battle Lake MN
    Deepest sympathies to Jeff’s family and friends. In the short time he was in our lives it was always a joy and pleasure to see him. Truly and honor to have known him.

  25. Vicki, I do not have words to explain what I am feeling right now. My heart goes out to you, Maddy, and Hunter. Please know that I am here for you if you need anything. Jeff was a great family man with patience and values all of us can learn from. He has taught his kids more about the important things in life than some of us know as adults. They will keep those memories forever. My thoughts and prayers go out to all.

  26. fargo ndWords can hardly discribe how i feel… My little jeffie, that’s what I called you when you were little and even called you that as an adult. I miss you so much, but I know your in a better place and best of all your with DAD.You also were the greatest father with your kids. You will be missed forever, I love you forever, your stepmom Lori….

  27. Harvey ND
    Vicki, You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your son Jeff. Cherish your memories and hold your little grandchildren close. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. Author unknown
    In sympathy, Kathy and Steve

  28. Wolverton MN
    I’m finding this hard to write as I can’t think of the words to say other than I’m so sorry Vicki. Growing up next door to you and having Jeff as my “brother” will never be forgotten. When I think about how wonderful my childhood was, it was because I had people like Jeff who helped make those wonderful memories. I’m so lucky to have had those memories with him and will cherish them as long as I live. He loved you and those kids so much Vicki! May he rest in peace and forever in our hearts. I love you Vicki!

  29. Fargo ND
    Vicki,

    Sorry to hear of your loss. I very much enjoyed being Jeff’s football coach at North. I believe he got his smile and kindness from you. Take Care.

    Jerry Krosbakken

  30. Corona CAMy thoughts and prayers go out to the family. He was a very fun loving guy when I knew him in high school. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing.

  31. Shakopee MN
    Vicki I am so sorry to hear of Jeff’s passing. I know you will get through the next couple of months because you are so strong. My prayers and thoughs are with you. I remember babysitting for Jeff when he was just a baby. He was so cute. Take care!

  32. Although I havent kept in touch with Jeff over the years -I do recall many good memories and alot of good laughs from back in the Roosevelt days and onto high school, He always did have such a good scense of humor! RIP Jeff ,taken too soon!

  33. jamestown nd I dont know him but just know a friend that knows him and my heart goes out to the family.and prayers to you all.so sorry for your loss

  34. Kindred North Dakota
    Jeff and I became friends on our first day of kindergarden, and it seems to me, some of the memories that come to mind first are of us getting in some kind of harmless mischief… and then going back & fourth with, “it was your fault….. etc,” once the teacher was done scolding us. (I remember that like it was yesterday!) He seemed to find humor in most things, (like a yo-yo with an extra long string). I wonder if I can still find our “fishing spot” up in North Fargo?
    God Bless you Jeff.
    Kelly

  35. Fargo ND
    Vicki– I was so very sorry to learn of Jeff’s passing. You’ve been through a lot in your life and I know you will remain strong on the days and months ahead. Take care. I will be thinking of you. Sharon

  36. May you rest in Peace Mr. Jeff. We were neighbors and then friends.

    I just saw you the other day and you always had a smile on your face.

    Maddison – I remember when she was born and then Hunter. You were an amazing father.

    You will be missed by so many. My prayers and heart go out to the family of this amazing person.

    RIP

  37. Fargo ND
    Vicki – I am so sorry to hear about Jeff. My prayers and thoughts are with you and the kids at this most difficult time.
    Barb

  38. Vicki,

    I was so very sorry to hear about Jeff. He was always so full of life. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

    rob

  39. Fargo ND
    Vicki and family,
    Our sympathy and love go out to all of you. It is so sad to lose a child. We would come to the service but we just got back to Fargo tonight after 3 weeks in Rochester. Odell had major back surgery Sept. 26th and then spent 2 weeks in rehab. He is at Elim nursing tonight and will be there for awhile until he gets stronger. He is doing well but has a long way to go. Memories of your Dad and Mom come back…Your Mom was one our babysitters in Harvey, many years ago. Our prayers are with you.

  40. Battle lake MnSorry to hear about your loss. He was a super guy and very friendly whenever he delivered packages to the store. Our prayers are with you and your families.

  41. Minneapolis MN
    First I just can’t believe the world will be without Jeff Hanson. It seems too close to home. This doesn’t happen to my friends or people I love. Words cannot express how sad I am for Vicki and his children. Also his sisters. My memories of Jeff are all good times and tons of laughter. I think the hardest and most I’ve ever laughed has been with him. I’m smiling just writing this because many good times are floating through my mind now. Although things don’t always go as planned Jeff and his family have a permanent place in my heart. It is easy for Jeff to be a memorable person. He is magnetic and is the life of most any occasion. I use the present tense because I will NEVER forget Jeff. Nor will I stop telling the stories of hilarious times we had. They are too funny not to share and impossible to forget….Just like you, Jeff. With Dear Thoughts, Amie

  42. West Fargo NoJeff was one of the best human beings that I know. My family had the privilege of being his next door neighbor for 7 years. We came to realize how much that Jeff valued family. His kids meant everything to him. He was also a very giving person-always offering to lend a helping hand and he gave so much of his time as a volunteer fireman. My deepest sympathy to Jeff’s family. I will always remember Jeff as a great Dad to his kids and as a great friend.

  43. Battle Lake Minnesota
    We didn’t know Jeff by name, but rather by a smile and delivery of boxes! He seemed to enjoy his job and he was definitely a delight to greet each afternoon! The care he had for his job and I’m sure this world will surely be missed! Sympathies to all that knew this man, especially to his children!

    Prayers.

    Mia, Cody Mills and family.

  44. Fargo ND
    Vicki and Family,
    So very sorry for your sudden loss. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Please accept my deepest sympathies. Sincerly Kim Truhlicka

  45. Otsego MN
    I cannot tell you how sad I was today after hearing the new of Jeff’s passing. I remember Jeff as a great friend in grade school and junior high school. Although I have many memories of Jeff, I will share the one that comes first to mind. Jeff and I were teammates on a traveling “B” squad basketball team. In one of our tournaments, the local Moorhead “A” team joined into the “B” squad” tournament so they could win. Unknown to Moorhead, Jeff would not let that happen. After a hard fought game with this Moorhead team, we were down 2 points with only seconds to go. Jeff found himself open in the corner and took a pass and with no time remaining did a fade away three pointer that hit nothing but net! We won!! He was our hero that day and the smile on his face said it all.

    I haven’t kept in touch since highschool, but it sounds like Jeff has continued to shine. My prayers go out to all his family and friends. God Bless.

  46. Fargo I find myself asking if this is real. How do you find the words to describe Jeff and I. After kindergarten together, we were never allowed to be in the same class. And if for some reason we were, we would have to sit on opposit corners of the room. This even happened in our senior year.

    All those years we had fun, most times too much fun. One story goes to the next and so on. Trust me, I’ve seen and done things with Jeff that most people would never believe. But, they did.

    Jeff had a great heart for friends in need, he has always been there when I need him. And for others, Jeff would help out and make a chore like even moving fun.

    I could go on and on, we all lost a great, friend,

  47. Hawley MN
    My family got to know Jeff in Mapleton and it did not take long to realize what a great person he was. He will be missed. Our prayers go out to Jeff’s family.
    Brett and Marcy Kading


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