James "Jim" Conrad Hanson

James Conrad “Jim” Hanson, 88, of West Bend, passed away on May 16, 2025, at Froedtert West Bend Hospital.

Jim Hanson was born on January 4, 1937, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where he was welcomed into the world by his parents, Conrad and Agnes (nee Ayres) Hanson. Jim served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1963, spending three years in Germany.

Love found him in Boyceville, Wisconsin, where he exchanged vows with Beverly Retz on August 19, 1967. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Wisconsin State College at Eau Claire, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Education in 1968. Not one to rest on his laurels, he later achieved a Master’s degree, further honing his teaching skills.

Jim shaped young minds as a 7th-grade science teacher at Kewaskum Middle School, a role he embraced from 1968 until his retirement in 1992. But stepping away from the classroom didn’t mean slowing down—his retirement years were filled with a love for collecting and restoring firearms. A marksman at heart, he enjoyed sharpening his skills at the West Bend Barton Sportsman’s Club and competing in marksmanship tournaments. Gun shows became not just a pastime but a place where lifelong friendships flourished.

Beyond his fascination with firearms, Jim had a keen appreciation for fine automobiles. Since settling in West Bend in 1970, he and Beverly built a life rich with community and activity. Summers were never idle—Jim orchestrated engaging projects for neighborhood kids ensuring that laughter and creativity filled the long, sun-drenched days.

One of the generous sides of Jim was, as a reward for their help in washing his truck, he would gather the kids in the back of his truck for a fun trip to Dairy Queen. In his later years, he read three to four books a week. His Norwegian roots remained a source of pride, and he lovingly prepared lefse, lutefisk, and other traditional pastries for family celebrations.

Those Jim leaves behind to cherish his memory include his wife, Beverly; two children, Jeremy Hanson and Erik Hanson; four grandchildren, Brent, Maggie, Brett, and Courtney; a sister, Sandra Curl; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents Jim was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Jill Hanson and a brother-in-law, Brian Curl.

A funeral service for Jim will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4th, at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, 462 Meadowbrook Drive, in West Bend. Visitation will precede the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m.

The Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Jim’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.