Lyle J. Hanson

Lyle J. Hanson, age 79, of Sturgeon Bay, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2026 with his family by his side.

He was born on January 31, 1947 to the late Kermit and Freida (Gabler) Hanson in Livingston, Wisconsin. Lyle was one of four children, and grew up on the family farm. He was the youngest of his brothers and sister, and quickly joined them in helping their parents care for the farm, from raising crops and animals, to building and renovating their home, and even helping out with the family finances. Lyle developed a knack for working with his hands at a young age, and would grow up to become a gifted carpenter and wood worker. His family would soon relocate to Green Bay, and Lyle would go on to graduate from South West in 1965. After High School, Lyle continued to develop his love for finances by attending college at UW Madison but soon found himself called to the Marine Corp to follow in the footsteps of his brothers. Lyle was proud to serve his country in the United States Marine Corp from 1968 to 1970, serving during the Vietnam Conflict. During which he was responsible for many of the logistical and supply decisions for his unit, and they relied greatly upon him. They awarded him with many accolades for his selfless contributions. Upon returning home, he continued at UW Madison, receiving his Masters in Accounting. Lyle spent more than 30 years working at Door County Memorial Hospital as their Controller, before his retirement in 2011. While attending his 50th class reunion, he found himself face to face with his high school crush and first kiss, Peggy Hodgson, the couple quickly hit it off and found themselves together for the next 12 years.

Lyle was a dedicated fisherman. There was no greater joy to him than to head out at 3 AM on Lake Michigan to go salmon fishing with his son, Eric, and numerous other family members. When not out on the lake, Lyle would bring family members to the UW Badger game where he was a season ticket holder. He wasn't just a diehard Badger fan, he was also an avid Green Bay Packer fan. Lyle was a private man, but everyone that knew him knew just how much he cared for his friends and family. He was a generous man, and was president with "Feed and Clothe My People" and served as the commander of Door County Power Squadron. And importantly, Lyle was a religious man, frequently attending services at Bay View Lutheran Church.

Lyle is survived by his loving family, Peggy Hodgson, his son, Eric (Brit) Hanson, his two grandchildren, Kaitlyn Hanson and Adam Hanson. He is further survived by his brothers, Stanley Hanson and Bruce (Bernice) Hanson, the mother of his son, Sharon Amundson, and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kermit and Freida, his sister, Sandy, and his beloved dog, Niko.

Lyle's Memorial Service will be held on Friday, October 16th, 2026 at 11:00 AM, at Fort Howard Memorial Park (1350 N Military Ave, Green Bay, WI 54303). We welcome all friends and family to join starting at 10:30 AM for a brief visitation before we begin our sharing of memories. We will conclude our service with Military Honors.

Lyle will be missed dearly by all that knew him, especially after he'd procrastinate something and tell you, "It is what it is."