Hanson, Ralph E. of Burlington, January 23, 2022. Former husband of the late Virginia M. (Healy) Hanson and preceded in death by his wife the late Drusilla (Cupp) Hanson. Survived by his children Gail M. Hanson-Mayer and her husband Tim of Woburn, Steven E. Hanson and his wife Fatma of San Diego, CA, and Neal E. Hanson and his wife Karen of Burlington. Brother of the late, Doris Perkins, Edie Kraff, and Robert Matson. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren, Vanessa, Carl, Anissa, Brittany, Bryan, and the late Dylan, by 6 great grandchildren, Nadine, Scarlett, Cecelia, Savannah, Julian, and Jack, and by many nieces and nephews.

Ralph passed away peacefully surrounded by his children following a brief illness.  Growing up in Arlington Massachusetts Ralph was known as a friend to all. His smile was wonderful, and his laugh could be heard around the block.  You always knew he was near, and he made everyone feel special.  At 17 he enlisted in the USMC and was sent to the Pacific Theater.  Returning home he married his high school sweetheart, moved to Indiana to study electrical engineering under the GI bill and returned to the Boston Area.

A dreamer and a true entrepreneur, he left his corporate job and formed the first of many companies in the medical device industry.  He had evolutionary ideas, the first, trans-telephonic ECG machine, portable pocket size blood pressure device and dual-chamber heart pacemaker.  His interest in helping others through medical devices inspired his children who have all had careers in the medical field.

Ralph was a lover of sports.  From the Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots he was always a fan.  He was an avid and accomplished golfer and longtime member of Winchester Country Club where his name adorns many plaques and trophies.

Ralph led a full life.  He put others before himself and will be remembered as a kindhearted loving man.  That laugh – made many people smile and say – hear comes Ralphie.  So, when you hear a laugh – its Ralph saying hello.  Laugh back and enjoy life, he would want you to be happy.

A private family Funeral Service will be held followed by interment at Westview Cemetery in Lexington. Donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.