Melford Hanson

Hanson, Melford T.\r\n MADISON-Melford T. Hanson, age 93, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009. He was born on Aug. 30, 1916, in Madison, the fourth child of Arthur and Minnie (Myren) Hanson. Mel was a proud graduate of Madison East High School. He married Fern Ricker on June 27, 1970 and they spent many years enjoying their favorite pastime of dancing at the VFW. Together they also spent many winters in Florida. Mel farmed the family farm for many years. He later worked for the University of Wisconsin in the animal laboratory, retiring in 1981. Mel enjoyed playing cards, bingo, and bus trips at Chamomille II, and spending time with his friends, Mary Lou and Elaine. He was a very kind and gentle man. Mel is survived by three children, Jack (Mary Ann) Ricker, Barbara Ricker, and Kenneth \"Bud\" (Rita) Ricker; seven grandchildren, Lynn (Mark) Krizan, Brian (Paula) Ricker, Bruce (Holli) Ricker, Tony (Lynnette) Ricker, Lori (James \"Bubba\") Evans, Linda (Jimmy) Lavender, and Lisa (Mike) Young; and 17 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Fern in 2008; his parents; sisters, Geneva Hanson and Lorraine Nesbit; and brothers, Harold and Russell. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. Burial will be at Burke Lutheran Cemetery. A special thank you to the nurses and staff at St. Mary\'s Hospital on 4E.\r\n Cemetery: Burial will be at Burke Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation: Visitation will be at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. Service: Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009.