Allen L. Hanson, 79, of Austin, died Monday, Nov. 7, 2011, at Mayo Clinic Health System-Austin.

Allen was born Dec. 11, 1931, in London, Minn., to Irene Hanson. He grew up in Adams, Minn., where he graduated from High School. On June 22, 1957, he was united in marriage to Gertrude A. Erickson. She preceded him in death on March 27, 2011. Allen enlisted in the Navy on May 16, 1953, and retired from the Navy on March 30, 1973. He worked for D&R Star for 20 years. Allen enjoyed gardening and fishing.

Survivors include four children, Keith Hanson, Austin, Dale (Jennifer) Hanson, Aurora, Colo., Gary Hanson, Austin, Sandi (Bill) Crowson, Rochester; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his sisters, Marie Saman and Mavis Kral; his mother, Irene Saman.

A visitation will be 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 11, 2011, at Mayer Funeral Home followed by military rites by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216.

Allen’s body is being donated to the University of Minnesota and interment will be at a later date in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.