Alvin Hanson

Alvin M. Hanson, age 89 of Fosston, MN went home to be with his Lord on Friday, February 20th at Essentia Health First Care Living Center in Fosston. Memorial services will be held on Friday, February 27th at 2:00 PM at Carlin-Hoialmen Funeral Home in Fosston with Pastor Mark Erickson officiating. A time of gathering for family and friends will be held for one hour before the memorial at the funeral home on Friday afternoon. The Carlin-Hoialmen Funeral Home of Fosston is in charge of the arrangements. Messages of condolence may be sent to carlinhoialmen.com.Alvin M Hanson was born on October 4, 1925 in rural Litchville, North Dakota to parents Andrew and Martha Hanson. He went to school at a one room country school Litchville, graduating as Valedictorian of his class. Alvin worked on the family dairy farm. When his two older brothers went off to war, he operated the farm single handedly, often inventing machinery combinations to make the work more efficient. When his brothers returned, he enlisted in the United States Army. Serving his term of duty in Korea, he also was in attendance at the surrender ceremony of the emperor of Japan, Hirohito. Following his military experience, Al enrolled in college at Jamestown College in Jamestown, North Dakota, completing a four year degree in Business. More importantly, Alvin met Grace Adams at Jamestown College. They were married on April 1, 1950 in the midst of a late spring snow storm that stranded several wedding guests at the church. Fortunately, Alvin and Grace escaped. In the following years, Al worked as store manager for the Gambles Company and then as a store manager and set-up merchandiser for the F.W. Woolworth Company. As a Woolworth employee, Al and family lived in many cities throughout the midwest States of Wisconsin, Michigan and Illinois. In 1970 Al and Grace purchased the Fairway Grocery store in Fosston. Later, Al worked in Bagley at Galen's Super Valu Grocery as butcher and store manager. Upon "retiring" from the grocery business, Al and Grace purchased Pastime Hobbies store in Fosston, changing the name to You Ask For It Hobbies and Crafts which they operated in town and then in the smiley face barn until closing in 2013. Also during retirement Hanson's Greenacres was born, growing and supplying the Fosston and surrounding area with beautiful bedding plants and vegetables. Al was well known for his beautiful wood carvings, woodworking abilities and picture matting and framing.God and family were first and foremost in the Hanson home. Children loved in the Hanson family are Ivy Bailie (Ron), Gay Godwin - deceased (Andy), Joy Hanson (Mike EauClaire), Mat Hanson (Kerstin), Elizabeth Agnes (Matt), Joe Hanson and James Hanson. 17 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren joined the family. The Hanson home became home for many foster children over the years.Alvin was a member of Fosston Baptist Church (New Journey) and for years active in church activities. Al was also a prayer team leader/organizer for the Billy Graham Crusades in the Illinois areas.On Friday, February 20, 2015 Alvin M Hanson went home to be with the Lord, as was his final goal in life. Rejoice with us in knowing that Al is now walking and leaping and praising God!