William “Bill” C. Hansen, 94, of Wilton, passed away on February 15, 2026, at Baptist Health and Rehab.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 20, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, ND, with visitation one hour prior.

Bill was born on November 1, 1931, southwest of Wilton in Painted Woods Township to Arthur and Martha (Fairman) Hansen. He was baptized and confirmed at Painted Woods Lutheran Church. He attended Painted Woods School No. 1 and later graduated from Wilton High School. He excelled as an athlete, as he was an all-conference football player in high school.

On December 27, 1960, Bill married Carol Hagerott; they later divorced. He spent his life ranching with his family and eventually took over the farm. Growing up during the Great Depression, Bill understood hardship and the importance of making do with what you had. In his younger years, horses were used for planting and harvesting, and he often shared stories about when electricity first came to the area. Springtime was his favorite season, as he looked forward to calving and the new life it brought.

Bill lived most of his life southwest of Wilton, aside from a few years in Bismarck. He was known for his strong work ethic and his willingness to help family, friends, and neighbors. He worked for the Burleigh County Highway Department out of Wilton, operating a maintainer for several years. Bill had an exceptional memory, often recalling birthdays and past events with ease.

He served on the Painted Woods Township Board, Farmers Union Oil Board, Farmers Union Elevator Board, and the ASCS Board, and he was a proud supporter of co-ops. Bill enjoyed visiting with others and never met a stranger. When asked about the secret to his longevity, he would joke that he never smoked, never drank, and never chased wild women.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Kristin (Mike) Love of Bismarck; his son, Bruce (Jan) Hansen of Wilton; grandchildren Kelsey (Skyler) Meyer, Mason (Brooke) Love, Logan Hansen, and Brady Hansen; and great-grandson Jameson Meyer. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Schreiner of Littleton, CO, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert Hansen; his sisters, Jeanne Workman, Marjorie Oberg, Betty Brostrom, and Martha Carlson; his brothers-in-law, Abram Workman, Gerald Oberg, Keith Schreiner, Morris Brostrom, and Clayton Carlson; and his sister-in-law, Vivian Hansen.

Bill’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Baptist Health and Rehab for the compassionate and exceptional care provided to their father. We also want to give special thanks to Jenna Lee and Lindsey with Caring Edge.