Lowell Hanson

Lowell Albert Hanson, 89, of Missoula, passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, of natural causes.

Lowell was born on June 4, 1937, in Mahnomen, MN, to Albert and Norma Hanson. He graduated high school at the Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston, MN, in 1955, where he enjoyed being on the wrestling and football teams. He then graduated from Concordia College with a bachelor science degree in biology and physical education. During college, he began working for the U.S. Forest Service during the summer, first as a firefighter and then as a smokejumper. He enlisted in the army in 1962, serving in special forces and as a medical specialist.

On July 22, 1964, he married Joan Langemo in Augsburg, Germany. Upon returning to the United States, the couple taught in Twin Valley, MN, until relocating to Missoula in 1968. He then worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a smokejumper and supervisor until 1980. In 1980, he purchased Solmar Stylist Supply, which he expanded and sold in 1991.

A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he loved reminiscing and sharing memories with friends. He was an active member of Sons of Norway and loved Lady Griz basketball games, reading, visiting the library, relaxing in front of Sunday afternoon football, treks in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Westerns, creating unique nicknames for everything under the sun, and telling a great story.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan, his parents, Albert and Norma, and his brother, Keith Hanson. Survivors include his two daughters and their families, Maren (Tommy) Baysinger, Lewiston, ID, and Solveig (Stephen) McShea, Chappaqua, NY; grandchildren Cameron and Schuyler McShea; and sister-in-law, Barb Hanson, and family.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, September 29, at 2:00pm at Garden City Funeral Home with Pastor David Brown officiating. In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to the National Smokejumper Association Scholorship Fund or the Missoula Senior Center.