Franciscan Father Howard William Hansen, 80, died April 17 at his home, St. Joseph Cupertino Friary in Prior Lake.
He was born in Ohio on Nov. 22, 1930. He entered the novitiate of the Conventual Franciscan Friars on July 4, 1949, taking the religious name Howard, and professed first vows July 4, 1950. He made his solemn profession July 4, 1953, and was ordained a priest July 14, 1957.
In the archdiocese, Father Hansen served at St. Bonaventure in Bloomington, at Assumption Seminary in Chaska, provided sacramental ministry and served on the retreat team for Franciscan Retreats in Prior Lake.
Mass was celebrated April 20 at St. Bonaventure with burial in Friars Cemetery in Indiana.
