James R. Hansen, 86, of Freeborn, died Monday, Dec. 31, 2007, at the New Richland Care Center in New Richland. Funeral services were today at 10:30 a.m. at Freeborn Congregational United Church of Christ in Freeborn. The Rev. Dennis Frank officiates. Visitation was Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Bruss-Heitner Funeral Home in Wells and one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in Freeborn Cemetery.

James R. Hansen was born June 8, 1921, in Freeborn Township, Freeborn County, the son of Henry and Bertha (Bothum) Hansen. He married Marjorie E. Benson on Aug. 20, 1960, at Greenfield Lutheran Church in Harmony. They farmed in the Freeborn area. He also drove school bus for the Freeborn Public School for many years. He and Marjorie enjoyed many winters in Texas. Jim liked going to auctions, eating at lutefisk suppers and enjoyed visiting with family and friends. In his younger years he was a good basketball player.

He is survived by two sons and their wives: State Rep. Rick (wife Suzanne) Hansen of South St. Paul, and Bob (wife Tonya) Hansen of Freeborn; three grandchildren: Ryan and Anika Hansen and Evan Hansen; two sisters-in-law: Marie Hansen of Albert Lea and Patricia Tollin of St. Charles; and one niece: Donna (Kenny) Dulitz of Albert Lea.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Marjorie in 2004; and one brother, Earl Hansen.