Kristopher Michael Hangaard

Kristopher Hangaard is now rejoicing with God. Truth be told, he probably ran a couple laps first. On Sunday September 22, Kris was freed of his wheelchair and is no doubt talking a mile a minute. God got a pretty darn good angel. Born May 29, 1981 in Yokosuka, Japan, Kris was the only son of Michael and Mary Hangaard. His sisters Sarah and Rachel followed him in birth.

After Japan, the family moved to Atlantic Beach, FL before settling in Elk River, MN. There, Kris graduated from Elk River Senior High School in 1999. He attended college at the University of Minnesota, Crookston before suffering a car accident in the fall of 2001 that left him wheelchair bound.

People who met Kris often remarked upon his great attitude despite his disability. He was a true inspiration for many. One of his most enduring attributes was teaching everyone he met the “I Love You” sign with his hand. He loved and cherished the time he spent with all of his extended family. He also treasured his time spent at Options in Big Lake, MN. There he was not viewed as being bound by a wheelchair but as a person. This was always important to him.  

While Kris was ready to be free of the bonds of Earth he leaves behind his parents Mike and Mary Hangaard, sisters Sarah Hangaard and Rachel (Gus) Foote, and twin nephews (Hayden Kristopher and Hudson Everett Foote).  Also grieving Kristopher’s passing are aunts and uncles Kristine (William “Spud”) Johnson, Joel (Patti) Haraldson, Karin (Dirk Siems) Trosvik, Joan (Dan) Ricks, Glenn (Bonnie) Hangaard, Tom Hangaard, and Teresa (Randy) Ward. Kris adored his many cousins who also mourn.  

Preceding him in death are his grandparents, Bill and Jeanette Haraldson, Kermit and Dolores Hangaard, and cousins Tyler Trosvik and Alyssa Trosvik.

Visitation and funeral services will be at Central Lutheran Church, 1103 School Street NW, Elk River. Visitation will be on Thursday September 26 from 5-8:00PM (prayer service begins at 7pm). Funeral service will be on Friday September 27 at 11am, with visitation one hour prior. The family asks attendees to wear your favorite Minnesota sports team apparel

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