Milton "Mickey" Stewart Hanson

He was a man of rare gifts and talents. Raised on a farm near Broadview, Saskatchewan in the depths of the 1930’s drought and depression he was fortunate enough to have parents who encouraged him and his older brother to follow their curiosity and develop their talents. From a young age, they became well known for their mechanical innovation and expertise along with their exceptional musical abilities.

Losing his father at a young age Mickey devoted his efforts to the farm, which he eventually took over from his mother and brother and successfully managed, along with his loving wife Lorraine, well into his ‘70’s. But while farming was the work Mickey loved and never tired of, it was making music that brought joy to his soul and to the hearts of countless others; joining up with his brother and local musicians from the late 1940’s on there was the Harmony Boys, emulating the post-war big band sounds, then the Moods Indigo with pop music and his Boots Randolph style saxophone, and eventually the polkas and waltzes of the Bohemian Brass, right up into the early 2,000’s.

Throughout those decades, at the endless weddings, community celebrations, Saturday night dances and Polka Fests, thousands of people across southeastern Saskatchewan danced and swirled to his music, his saxophone and his mellow singing voice.

Mickey was a devoted husband, an inspiring father, a neighbour who could be counted on in times of need, and a steadfast community member, volunteering his help without reservation to multiple causes and organizations.

Left to mourn and honour his life are his beloved wife, Lorraine; sons: Morley (Johane), Larry (Shirley) and Lindsay (Elaine) and grandchildren: Maya (Patrick), Gabrielle, Kirsten (Dayton), Sara (Drew), Britt and Kristjan (Shannon), and great-grandchildren Adriella and Kweli.

The family would like to thank the 5F Unit at the Regina General Hospital for their outstanding care, compassion and love for which we will be forever grateful.

A GATHERING to honour and celebrate a life well-lived was held in the Broadview Community Hall on Friday, July 8, at 2:00 P.M. All are welcome. A private interment was held in the Percival Cemetery.

If friends so desire, a donation could be made to the Broadview and District Lion’s Club or Broadview Wildlife.