Obituary, Staples World, 26 Mar 1903 Page 5, col 5
KILLED LAST NIGHT
N. A. Hanson, of Esterdy, Struck by an Engine and is Dead when Found a Little Later
About 10 o'clock last night, N. A. Hanson, a pioneer settler in the vicinity of Esterdy, was killed in the railroad yard at this place. So far as known no one saw the accident. Engineer L. H. Laughlin pulled into the yard from Duluth, uncoupled his engine and backed down the main line on his way to the roundhouse. At the house, he noticed fresh blood and started back to investigate. The body was found, however, by a couple of car repairers. It was lying between the rails on the main line and a short distance west of the ice house. Both hands and a portion of the top of his head had been cut off.
It is probable that Mr. Hanson went to the depot and from there intended to go to Martin's livery to look after his team. He started in the opposite direction however, and probably did not notice the red lights on Laughlin's engine until it was upon him.
The remains were taken to Miller's undertaking rooms and the coroner is expected this evening. A messenger was sent to Esterdy this morning to notify his family.
Mr. Hanson was about 55 years of age. Further particulars next week.

Obituary, Staples World, 2 Apr 1903 Page 5, col 3
FUNERAL OF N. A. HANSON
The funeral of N. A. Hansonn, whose tragic death was announced in these columns last week, was held from the shool house at Esterdy Sunday afternoon. The building was crowded to the doors and then not half of those in attendance were able to gain admission. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. G. L. Hunt and he took for his text Rev. 1:18. The burial took place at the cemetery at that place.
Nels August Hanson was born at Rodeby, Sweden, August 9, 1849. On December 1, 1871, he was married to Miss Wilhelmina Ahnquist [sic-should be Almquist].
They came to America about fourteen years ago and settled at Park Rapids. After a few years residence at that place they moved to what is now Esterdy, and took up a homestead. They have since made that place their home.
Eleven children blessed their union. They are Mrs. Thressie McKenzie, of Elgin, Ill., Mrs. Marvin Perkins, of Esterdy, Mrs. D. Bordwell, of Thomastown, Carl and Helmer, who reside near Spokane and were the only ones who could not get here in time for the funeral, Fritz Hanson, of Brainerd, Conrad, Tony, Phea, Annie, and Oscar, who are still at home. Oscar, the youngest, is about six years of age [sic- should be 7]
Mrs. Hanson and the children have the sympathy of all in their sudden bereavement.