(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Lois E. Hansen of Lakeshore Manor passed away Thursday, May 25, 2017 at Ascension All Saints, surrounded by loved ones, after a lengthy battle with multiple illnesses.
Lois was born in Racine March 18, 1929, the oldest daughter of Herbert and Grace (Sweet) Zirk. The Great Depression caused the family to move to St. Paul, MN where her father found work. She graduated high school in St. Paul and pursued a career in nursing after graduating from Gustavus Adolphus College.
In 1951, she married Elmer C. Hansen. They lived across the street from one another as children in Racine, and he fed her green apples until she was ill when they both were three years old. Their parents remained friends through the years, and despite the inauspicious beginning, they became inseparable. They fell in love while corresponding when Elmer was serving in the Army. Lois devoted her life to helping others. She worked as an office nurse, a labor and delivery nurse, an emergency room nurse, and an industrial nurse, pausing only to grow her family with four children in five years, and eventually retiring from nursing when her children were teenagers. When Elmer died suddenly of an aneurysm in 1981, Lois was driven back into the workforce, a challenge which she met head on. She worked for an insurance office, Sears, and Miracle Ear as a customer service representative until eventually retiring for health reasons at the age of 77.
Lois had a love of music and was gifted with a beautiful singing voice which she shared in many venues including Sweet Adelines Chorus, as well as singing solos and in choir at her church, First Baptist of Racine.
Lois was a lifelong Democrat and a strong supporter of progressive political campaigns throughout her life, including volunteering a number of times. Her egalitarian approach to life and people had a profound impact on her children, all of whom have benefitted greatly from her inspirational teachings.
Lois is survived by her sister, Myrna (Dave) Fauska, and by her children: Rev. Kurt (Dr. Susan) Hansen, Leanne (Gary) LaValle, Helena (Jim) Boles, and Katie (Scott) LaCanne. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Jake Hansen, Ben Dorval (fiancée Kim Buss), Alison Dorval, Erica Dorval, Andy (Jolene) Boles, and Chris Boles; and three great-grandchildren: Barrett Dorval, Carlton Dorval, and Faith Buss. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and grandson, Joshua Dorval.
A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, 3117 Lathrop Ave. Racine, on Wednesday, May 31 at 11am, with visitation beginning at 10am. Rev. Holly Anderle will officiate. A luncheon will follow the service. Memorial gifts may be directed to First Baptist Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The strife is o’er, the battle won. To Christ Jesus be the Glory. Amen.
Mon - Fri: 8AM - 4PM
(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Victor Lian says:
I’m very sorry to hear about the loss. I extend my deepest sympathies to your family. May the soul of your mother be at peace with our Heavenly Father.
Margaret Karsten says:
Sincere sympathy to Kurt, Susan, and the family at this great loss.
syed m moiz says:
She had a full and successful life. Details of her life, specially the deep connection between her and her husband, taking an early retirement from a rewarding career, then forced to work again after the sudden death of her husband-all are touching phases of her life.
I would like to offer deep condolences to all affected by her death.
Dr. Lawrence Muzinga and Dr Annie Kinwa-Muzinga says:
Susan,
Annie and I are saddened to hear the news of the sudden death of your mother-in-law. We are certain that her memories will always be in many people hearts including your own. We hope God gives you and your dearest husband all the strength in such difficult time.
Lowanda says:
I’m sorry for your loss. Death is never easy and it brings great sorrow. The Bible can bring you much hope and comfort at this difficult time.. Within its pages are the wonderful promise of the wonderful promises found at Revelation 21;3, 4. God is going to end suffering forever.