John Richard Hanson, age 65, passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. Born on December 9, 1959, in El Paso, Texas, John was the beloved son of the late John Richard Hanson and Elaine Catherine (Smith) Hanson.

John lived a life full of laughter, love, and a deep passion for family and food. He spent many years working as a professional chef at the Louisiana, MO Golf Course, where his love for cooking shined. He later took to the open road as an over-the-road truck driver, embracing the freedom and adventure that came with it.

On October 2, 2003, John married the love of his life, Patricia Marie Miller. Together, they shared 20 years of marriage filled with warmth, humor, and countless family gatherings. Patty preceded him in death on October 9, 2023. Though John never had biological children, he played a significant role in the lives of many — especially his great-grandson Tyler Wilson, whom he helped raise from infancy and considered his pride and joy.

John will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his love for backyard BBQs, cooking, spending time with family, and cheering on his favorite football team, the Kansas City Chiefs. He had a special bond with his dog, who was his loyal companion.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elaine Hanson; his sister Ann and her husband Tom Wilcox; and his beloved wife, Patty.

John is survived by his sisters, Shawn (Joel) Morgan of Beulah, ND, and Diane (Bill) Kohlhaas of Moron, IL; stepchildren Tracy Wilson, Rob Wilson, Tina Harper, Scott (Aimee) Miller, and James Miller (Brianne Ketterlin); ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will miss him dearly.

Memorial donations may be made to: Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson Street, Mexico, MO 65265.

John's legacy will live on through the laughter he brought into every room, the meals he lovingly prepared, and the lives he touched along the way.