Helen Hanson's Obituary
On November 3, 2012, surrounded by family, our precious mother, grandmother, "grandma great", aunt, sister-in-law, friend, and child of God, Helen M. Hanson, was called home by her Savior. Helen was born to Olaf and Lulu Ostness on December 3, 1920. She joined her sister and forever best friend, Irene. Her family called Tacoma, WA home, and except for a brief time living in Portland, OR, she attended school, where she graduated from Lincoln High School in 1939, worked, and most importantly raised her family here. After retirement, she and the love of her life, Happy, moved to Federal Way, WA to live on Mirror Lake. Helen married Harold M. Hanson (Happy) on September 26, 1941 at Temple Baptist Church where she was a charter member in 1934. She and Happy raised their children in the church and it was the center of both their lives. Helen labored tirelessly doing the Lord's work. Helen's membership at Temple continued until her passing and even when poor health kept her from attending, she was excited to hear news and weekly recordings of the sermons. She will be greatly missed by her Temple family. Happy and Helen had five children, Mark (Sue) of Shelton, WA, Ross (Nadine), Scott (Janice), Dee Dee (Oscar) Fraga all of Puyallup, WA, and Jay, who died in infancy. They had eleven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren with another due in January. Nothing in life made Helen happier than to have her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren around her and to provide her warm hospitality. "The lake" was the scene of many gatherings that will remain fond memories for all, including countless friends who were always considered part of the family. In addition to son Jay, Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Happy, and sister Irene. She became like a mother to Irene's daughters and their families and received their love in return. She was also a special aunt to many Hanson nieces and nephews. All who had the joy of meeting Helen were struck by her sweet spirit. She had a deep and unfaltering faith in God that was her foundation through good and difficult times. The family wishes to thank Regency Rehabilitation Center in Puyallup and Saint Francis Hospital in Federal Way for their care during the last months. We will love and miss her forever. A Celebration of Helen's life will be held on Saturday, November 10, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at Temple Baptist Church, 1108 Columbia Avenue, Fircrest, WA 98466. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Helen's name to the Temple Baptist Memorial Fund.
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