Bernard âBenâ Allan Hanson, 87, passed away Dec. 15, 2020 at New Perspectives Assisted Living in Cloquet surrounded by his family.
He was born Nov. 21, 1933 to Albert and Julia (Blegen) Hanson. He grew up in the Aitkin area, attending schools in Thor and Aitkin, graduating in 1952. After graduation he worked on several farms in North Dakota.
Ben worked as a lineman in Denver, Colorado before being drafted into the Army June 9, 1954. He was stationed in France and honorably discharged May 16, 1956.
Following the service, Ben returned to high line construction, working for various contractors throughout the Midwest. During lay-offs, he worked the ore boats on the Great Lakes and cut pulp wood.