Arleigh Hanson
1942 – 2024
Arleigh was born in Dinsmore Hospital, SK, on May 11, 1942, the first child of Harry and Rose (Leonard) Hanson, and the first grandchild on both sides of the family. It was quickly discovered that Arleigh had a rare condition called anophthalmia, which simply means, “without eyes”. His parents rose to the challenge of nurturing a boy who would never see as others saw. When Arleigh’s brother Alden arrived 3 years later, they became best chums. It was a heart-breaking experience when Arleigh’s only option for education was a boarding school, the Ontario School for the Blind in Brantford, ON, 2000 miles from home. Arleigh’s parents and little Alden spent 5 winters in Brantford during this time so they could enjoy being together on weekends. As a lad of 11, Arleigh, having listened to the Gospel of Christ, made a definite life choice to serve God.
Arleigh was Saskatchewan’s first blind student. He attended Queen Elizabeth Country School south of their family farm for Grades 9-11 and then Dinsmore High School for his final year, graduating with “flying colours”. The attempt at university, however, proved frustrating due to the lack of appropriate aids.
Arleigh found work in the dark room at St Paul’s Hospital, developing X-rays. He also studied in Toronto to become qualified as a “CNIB Field Man,” travelling in SK to help others who had become blind. His intensive course in Toronto to become a Registered Massage Therapist, pioneered the way for other blind students. This developed into a rewarding lifelong career in Outlook—the best town in SK! His sensitive hands gave relief to the pain of many grateful patients.
In April 1990, Arleigh married Muriel Holland, originally from Emo, ON, and they spent their 34 happy years in Outlook. In Arleigh’s health, Muriel’s devoted care made it possible for him to pass away in the familiar surroundings of their own home.
Arleigh was predeceased by his father Harry in 1987; his mother Rose in 2010; and his brother Alden in 1997. Remembering him with love and precious memories are his wife Muriel Hanson; sister Margaret Hanson; sisters-in-law Anne Hanson (nee Hopkins) and Beverly Holland; brothers-in-law Harry Holland and Arnold (Ruth) Holland; nephew Jason (Andrea) Hanson; and niece Jody Hanson, as well as dear cousins and other friends.
In honour of Arleigh’s memory, please take time to share a kind or cheerful message today, or a donation to a local charity of your choice.
08/07/2024
Bernard & Ruth Hall
Dear Muriel, Margaret & other family members, Ever since the phone rang to tell us of Arleigh's passing our thoughts have been with the family. Our forefathers lived near one another & as a result our Affleck family often met the Hanson family at Dinsmore. In later years I was entrusted with a crippling condition & to see Arleigh live so happily with his lifelong condition was a tremendous inspiration to me. It was always a pleasure to call in & visit or chat on the phone over the miles...I will miss that. Our thanks to you Muriel for taking such good care of such a special friend & special courage to you Margaret as you face the future without that brother. Our love & best wishes, Ruth & Bernard Hall
08/07/2024
Ila Rhodey (Simpson)
Shirley Simpson and Kevin and Ila Rhodey send our love and sympathies to you all! A very special man 💕
08/06/2024
Robin Musey (LeGard)
I remember years ago when Arleigh's dad would drive him to our house so he could give my dad massage therapy. I was always amazed by his talent. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
08/05/2024
Alex and Isabelle Howden
It is with deep sympathy and love that we send theses condolences to you Muriel and you Margaret. And the entire family . Arleigh was an outstanding man , though our encounters with him were not many , they are Very memorable And dear . Thinking of you as the days unfold ahead and know there will be sorrow. Thankful for our Heavenly Father who is ever present . ♥️❤️
08/04/2024
Victor & Sandra Olsen
Thinking of you Muriel, Margaret and the rest of the Hanson family. We appreciated Arleigh as we knew him throughout his life. A kind, caring pillar that will be missed. Our thoughts will be with you as you face the days ahead. Victor & Sandra Olsen
08/04/2024
Marion Lyon
Condolences to Muriel, Margaret( sister) and other family Arleigh was always cheerful, witty & ready to offer a hand when possible. He will be kindly remembered for his love of his Spiritual brethren.May memories comfort those who suffer his loss. Marion & Arnold Lyon
08/04/2024
Leona Dreger
Please accept my condolences Muriel, Margaret and others. You will miss Arleigh. I plainly remember that as children in Saskatchewan we knew of Arleigh and of his bravery in facing the going away to school and other challenges. He was nearly my twin! Wonderful testimony he had and he's now reached the goal. Leona Dreger
08/04/2024
Robbie Stapleton
Dear family, I believe it was in the autumn of 1982 Arliegh's cousin Ron brought me to Outlook and to Carter Crescent. This started a lifelong friendship of which I will be eternally grateful. Arliegh had an outstanding way of nurturing friendship in each person that became close to him. After I wept for myself upon hearing of Arle's passing the thought came, " This is what Arliegh lived for, the things that outlasted life itself" Condolences, love and Hugs to each of the family. Rob Elva Stapleton and family. Northern Ireland. Rob Elva Stapleton and family.
08/03/2024
Carrie Green
My heart felt condolences to Arleigh's family and friends. I used to live next-door to Arleigh when I was a young child. I visited his parents frequently, and would speak with him occasionally as he was often working in the basement I believe he must've been doing his massage therapy. Funny, I am now an RMT myself, as I believe that Arleigh had spoken to my father about pointing me in that direction when I grew up, as I was also blind. I had a tandem bicycle that my dad purchased second-hand from Arleigh, and I had that bike for over 40 years. It was recently stolen unfortunately, but I had many many wonderful years with that bicycle and it was all thanks to Arleigh. He was a wonderful man, and I know he will be missed, but will live on in our memories and our hearts, as he touched many peoples lives. Carrie Green, RMT Regina, SAskatchewan
08/02/2024
Merlyn Friesen
Dear Muriel. We are saddened to hear of Arleigh's passing, yet have assurance he is with his Lord. We are sorry to be away and can't attend the memorial service but have so many wonderful memories of times together. May God comfort you and give you strength for the days ahead. Love - Elna and Merlyn
08/02/2024
Stacy Seltenrich
Muriel, I have so many wonderful memories of Arleigh and of you. I will forever save him some haystacks. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Margaret and all who knew and loved Arleigh Stacy Seltenrich
08/02/2024
Karen Hagemeister
I'm Sorry For Your Loss.. I remember my parents going to see him and Outlook for treatments..He was an amazing therapist who helped many people through his gentle touch..Sending Heartfelt Condolences to his family and friends
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