Harlin Obert Hanson, 77, of Williston, North Dakota was called Home by his Lord to be reunited with his family December 8, 2025. Harlin died peacefully at his home with his loving family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. Harlin was born on January 15, 1948 in Williston, North Dakota to Obert and Verna (Huwe) Hanson.

Harlin was a life-long resident of Williston. In high school he used to pound on reamers until his arms ached, saving money to buy his first gun. He was a seismographer in the northwestern territories for Amerada and Hess. Harlin also worked for Arlos Texaco, National Oilwell supply, Gary Wendell Motors, Republic Supply, Dotco, Homco and later becoming a Co-Owner of Williston Tire Service.

Harlin married Patricia (Pat) Abernathey in 1966. To this union of twenty-two years, their two children, William (Bill) and Dawn were born. Harlin was graced with a second family when he met Geri (Booth) in 2000. They were married in 2005 and he welcomed Crystal, Cameo, Robert and Samuel into his life as his own children. They recall him being such a great and influential part of their lives being their father figure. He considered himself a dad to them all.

Harlin always had a Coke, brownie, cookie or candy bar nearby. He would give the shirt off of his back to help anyone he could throughout his life and did so always with a smile on his face. For those that knew Harlin could attest that while he was passionate about his hunting and fishing, he was most passionate about his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Being around them and seeing the smiles on their faces, hearing their laughter, or sharing hugs and kisses and just getting to watch them grow was one of the greatest accomplishments of his life.

Harlin is survived by his wife Geri; his children, William “Bill” Hanson (Mona Knutson), Dawn (Galyn) Flexhaug, Crystal (Chad) Swenson, Cameo (Chris) Antonelli, Robert M. Booth (Cheryl Knutson), Samuel “Sam” (Emilee Booth- Aalund); sisters, Sharon Hanson, Gloria (Marc) Andreen; seventeen-plus grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Numerous nieces, nephews and friends also survive. He is preceded in death by his parents, Obert and Verna Hanson, his brother Robert “Bob” Hanson and by his sister Carol Anderson.

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