Darrell R. Hanson

Darrell R Hanson, a devoted husband, beloved stepfather, cherished grandfather, and master of all things mechanical, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, at the age of 85. He leaves behind a legacy defined by tireless hard work, a deep devotion to his family, the joy he found in the rhythm of Lake St. Clair and the Great Lakes, and the satisfaction of a job well done. Born on a farm in Carroll, Iowa, on December 10, 1939, he developed a strong work ethic as a young man. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Airforce where he worked on the electronics on bomber airplanes. This chapter of his life instilled in him the discipline and ingenuity that would shape his later life, including the founding of his own business. His dedication was evident in his long and successful career in engineering metal fabrication and electronics, which he continued even in his later years working and fashioning instruments that will be in use for many years to come. Darrell was a man whose hands were rarely idle. At home, he was known as the ultimate handyman. There was nothing he couldn't fix, build, or improve. His shop, nicknamed the “garage-mahal” by his family, was legendary—partly because of his habit of keeping everything because, to him, every item held the potential to become something new or useful. He was happiest working, fixing, and creating solutions to even the most mundane requests from his family, taking satisfaction in the process of bringing order and beauty to his world. His greatest love, however, was his wife, Karen Hanson. He loved her beyond measure, and their relationship was a beautiful partnership built on mutual respect, adventure, and time spent just being together. Together, they enjoyed traveling, exploring new places, going out to eat, and creating treasured memories. Darrell also held a special place in his heart for his boat, The Lazy One. The hours spent on the water, whether tooling around or simply enjoying the peaceful rocking of the waves, were his sanctuary, and the relationships he built there lasted a lifetime. He was one of the cornerstones of a large and loving family, spending much time with his stepdaughters, Cindy (Wade) Decker and Michelle (James) Brown, and loving being drawn into the lives of his grandchildren: John, Kaitlyn, and Clare Decker of Metamora and Andrew and Grace Brown of Melvin. He is survived by his brother, Gary (Phyllis) Hanson, sisters, Karen (Bill) Myers and Susan (Steve) Hanson, nieces Sue (Tim) Kelly and Barb Howard, and nephew Dan (Sharon) Howard, along with other many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Raynard and Ruby (Hamann) Hanson, and his wife Pat Hanson, his first wife of 33 years. We will forever miss his wisdom and the dependable presence of the man who could fix anything but our broken hearts. In keeping with Darrell’s wishes, he will be cremated. The family will announce details for a celebration of life at a future time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Darrell to be made to your own favorite charity or organization. Arrangements in care of Jowett Funeral Home - Port Huron

Darrell R. Hanson

December 10, 1939 - December 4, 2025