Donald Lee Hanson

Donald Lee Hanson, 71, of Hot Springs Village passed away July 8, 2018. He was born on September 5, 1946 in Seattle, WA to Robert L. Hanson and Virginia (Nelson) Hanson. Don's profession was in aviation as a helicopter pilot for over forty years with the U.S. Army and Petroleum Helicopters, Inc. He served two tours in Vietnam and Germany. He was honored with two distinguished flying crosses, one with valor and numerous other medals for flying. Don flew as a Captain for Petroleum Helicopters, Inc. based in Lafayette, LA with assignments including Europe, Australia, West Area New Guinea, and many areas of the U.S. One area included Children's Hospital in Little Rock, Ark. for approximately eight years, which was a highlight of his life. Don and his wife, Kathy were members of Balboa Baptist Church of Hot Springs Village, Ark. He was also a disabled veteran, served for the MOAA military organization, and member of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots' Association. He is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Kathleen Hanson, a son, Markus Hanson; a daughter, Susan Wilkins (Paul), a sister Kathleen Jacobson (Mikel) and two grandchildren, Lawson and Gunner Wilkins; nieces, Bradi Jacobson, Haley Cochran (Cainan), Laurie Curry (Kyle), Carmen Haynes (Jared), Carla Shelnutt (Doyle) and Elliana Jacobson; and nephews, Derek Jacobson (Julissa), Jason Jacobson (Tara), Kelton Broadway, Branden Broadway (Megan), Jordan Nolen, Joseph Nolen and Doyle Shelnutt; and numerous other family and friends. Visitation will be held Tuesday, 5-7 p.m. at Caruth Village Funeral Home. Service will be Wednesday, 11 a.m. at Balboa Baptist Church in Hot Springs Village, Ark. with Pastor Denny Wright officiating. Guest may register at www.caruth-hale.com.