Michael Allan Hanson

Michael Allan Hanson, 78, of Ventura, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, with his family by his side.

A family graveside service will be held at a later date in Brush Point Cemetery; with Pastor Linda Johnson Prestholt officiating. Memorials may be directed to the family, which will be shared in Mike’s memory.

Michael Allan Hanson was born March 14, 1948, in Mason City, Iowa, the son of Allan D. and Vera M. (Hyde) Hanson. Mike spent his early childhood on a farm north of Clear Lake before moving into town, where he later graduated from Clear Lake High School with the Class of 1966.

He continued his education at Iowa State University before being drafted into the United States Air Force in January of 1969. Mike proudly served his country, becoming fluent in multiple languages and working in military intelligence with assignments in Arlington, Virginia, Texas, and overseas in the Republic of the Philippines. Following his time in the Air Force, Mike began a long career with Farmers Elevator in Ventura, Iowa, where he worked until his retirement in 2013. He was known by those who worked with him as “a walking encyclopedia,” someone who loved knowledge and spent his life asking questions, learning, and sharing his know-how. Gruff at times and set in his ways, he was, at his core, a truly good man – honest, well-meaning, and always straightforward.  

Mike was united in marriage to Joyce Buchanan on August 13, 1983, and through this union gained a daughter, Julie. Following their marriage, the family built their home in Ventura, Iowa. Mike and Joyce enjoyed bowling, fishing, and many spontaneous trips to the casino. When they weren’t out and about, they cherished time together relaxing on their back porch and visiting with family and friends. Mike especially loved hosting their annual Fourth of July family picnic, tending to their garden, and tinkering in his garage. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and even dabbled in woodworking, creating skillfully detailed pieces.  

Mike is survived by his daughter, Julie (Doug) Grell; grandchildren, Hailey Grell and Dalton (Elizabeth) Grell; great-granddaughter, Sutton Grell; siblings, Rick Hanson and Caroline (Dave) Arthur; brothers- in-law, Al Ramon and Ed Buchanan Jr.; along with many nieces, nephews, and other treasured relatives and friends. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Allan and Vera Hanson; brother, Tom Hanson; father-in-law, Edward Buchanan Sr.; mother-in-law, Susan Gottfried; brother-in-law, Frankie Gottfried; sisters-in-law, Lori Hanson, Jane Ramon, and Jan Buchanan; along with extended family, Chuck Waage.

“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 First Ave North Clear Lake, Iowa 50428,641-357-2193

www.colonialchapels.com