Rich HansonRichard Dean Hanson, 81, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed on peacefully March 9th surrounded by loving family and friends. Richard, son of Clarence and Ruby (Wendt) Hanson, was born on February 13th, 1936 in Aberdeen, SD. He grew up in Aberdeen and attended Aberdeen Central High School graduating in 1954. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Northern State College in 1958, in addition to an M. A. in Counseling.Rich married JoAnne St. John, a widow and mother of Elizabeth and Robert, on June 18th, 1966 in Sioux Falls, SD. The new family continued to grow with the birth of their son, Chad Richard. Rich's career began in physical education and evolved through guidance counseling at area high schools, as well as being certified as an insurance agent at various local companies. Through the years he was most passionate and dedicated to sport. As a longtime referee, supervisor of officials, and sports volunteer, he devoted most of his adult life to enriching youth development through sport. One very special highlight for Rich came last year as he was honored for his many years of service by being inducted into the 2016 South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame. Rich's sports activities included officiating football, basketball, and volleyball, starting various track and field meets, being supervisor of officials for a variety of conferences, as well as being an Augustana scorekeeper. He received the B'nai B'rith Award, the Dan Lennon Award, and the Milt and Clara Harvey Award, among many others. In addition, Rich was recognized for his 50+ years of dedication to the Howard Wood Relays.Along with being an integral part of the sports community, he was privileged to be part of the ground breaking for the Sanford Premier Center. In addition, Rich devoted many decades to Boys State, the Augustana Boosters, and the Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Sports and Recreation Committee.Rich was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church for many years where he was involved in Stephen Ministries, various boards, and a Senior Choir member.Above all he loved his family and friends. His survivors include children, Elizabeth (John) Kilbourne, East Grand Rapids, MI; Robert Hanson, Centennial, CO; Chad (Stephanie) Hanson, Sioux Falls, SD. Grateful to be near his heart are his "Magnificent 7" grandchildren: Zoe' (27), and Parker (21) Kilbourne; Lane (23), and Clay (19) Hanson; Zachary (16), Dylan (15), and Courtney (12) Hanson. Other family members include his sister, Gayle (Ray) Miller, Aberdeen, SD; and many nieces and nephews, relatives, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister, and wife, Jo Anne. His spirit lives on in the memories of those who love him.The family would like to thank his friends and many care givers, most importantly, Scott Boyens, M.D., for his loving medical care, guidance, and friendship, especially over these last few years.Funeral services for Rich will be held on Wednesday, March 15 at 10:00AM at Our Saviors Lutheran Church with a luncheon to follow and then burial at Hills of Rest Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Heritage Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 14 from 4:00-7:00pm, family present from 5:00-7:00pm.For those unable to attend the service the family asks that cards be sent to Heritage Funeral Home, 4800 S. Minnesota Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57108. www.heritagesfsd.com