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Hanson, Helen M.

Helen M. Hanson, age 92, passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at St. Elizabeth Hospital.

Helen was born on February 12, 1923 in Norway, Michigan, daughter of the late Joseph and Helen (Woyatzla) Giuliani. After Helen’s first marriage to Bowers, she married Norris Hanson in 1980. Helen and Norris enjoyed 28 years of married life together as they traveled across the United States and to Norway. They operated a Norwegian store together for many years in Iola, WI before they became “snow birds”, spending winters in Yuma, AZ and summers at Lily Lake in WI. Norris taught Helen how to bowl and together they enjoyed bowling for fun and in tournaments, where Helen’s competitive spirit and bowling skills helped her earn several 600 club titles. Helen enjoyed social gatherings and hosting dinner parties. Whether at home or at someone else’s home, Helen would always be found in the kitchen. Helen’s love of cooking started in her younger years working as a chef in many different restaurants. Helen’s passion for cooking remained with her even during her final days in the hospital, as she spoke of plans to make the homemade dandelion wine of her childhood and the cake she was served in the hospital. In addition to cooking and baking, Helen enjoyed arts, crafts, and games. Helen loved making catnip toys, painting, and crocheting. She also enjoyed playing games; nickels, cribbage, bingo and slots.

Helen is survived by her son, Robert (Judy) Bowers and their children; sister-in-law, Joan Giuliani; stepsons: Eric Hanson, Harold Hanson, Ivan Hanson, Norris Jr. Hanson; stepdaughters, Joy Hanson and Sonia Hanson. Helen is further survived by the spouses of her stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and close friends from building 16 at Highland Park apartments. Helen is preceded in death by her husband, Norris Hanson; parents, Joseph and Helen (Woyatzla) Giuliani; sisters, Theresa Giuliani and Lydia Kettermcom; brother, Joseph Giuliani; daughter, Mary Bowers Nightengale; step daughter-in-law, Jane Hanson and grandson, Joseph Hanson. In keeping with Helen’s wishes a private family service will be held at a later date.

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