"Sending my condolences to the Hanson family. I have many fond memories of Bernice from all the sleep overs that took place. I learned early that what ever you wanted for breakfast Bernice made. Then I choose what Kristi wanted so it wouldn?t be extra work for her. I see her smile and hear her laugh. May your heart be filled with memories to carry you thru this difficult time. Prayers for comfort and peace.??"
In loving memory of
Bernice K. Hanson
December 24, 1931 - October 31, 2021
Our Mom, Bernice Kathleen (Sande) Hanson, was born December 24, 1931 to Bernhard and Karina (Bremmer) Sande. She passed away Sunday, October 31 at her home in Peterson. She grew up on their farm near the Boyum Schoolhouse in rural Peterson. As a child she learned to "pitch in" and had funny stories about mad roosters and shocking grain at home and for neighbors.
Her elementary school years took place in the one-room schoolhouse just down the hill. She went to high school in Peterson, and after graduation attended Winona Teacher's College. After teaching 4th and 5th grade for a year in Spring Grove, she realized she knew the love of her life and settled down two miles from her childhood home. She and Eugene Hanson were married on June 28, 1952. They raised their 6 children on the Hanson farm and were active in their church, school, and community.
Our Mom eagerly welcomed visitors to our home and always said goodbye with "Thank you for coming, and COME AGAIN!" Her baking was famous--there were always fresh breads, cookies, bars, and other desserts. Her big garden produced a winter's worth of canned and frozen vegetables. She loved making jams, jellies, and pickles and kids were sent to pick anything that was ripe! Bernice instilled her signature tough work ethic in her children and made sure they knew to take care of family first, but to also lend a hand to others.
She was a devoted and cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandma who followed everyone's church and school activities. Her piano and organ skills were put to use at church services, for soloists needing accompaniment, and for sing-alongs with extended family.
Bernice is survived by her children, Julie Hignell of Ely, MN, Beth (Gaines) McFadden of Great Falls, MT, Kathryn (John) Ogier of Durango, CO, Daniel (Sherlyn) Hanson of Peterson, MN, Peggy (Dan) Olson of Lewiston, MN, and Kristi (Paul) Conway of Winona, MN; six grandchildren, Ryan Olson, Brenna Theede, Stephanie Ogier, Emily Hignell, Elianna Hanson, and Carly Conway; seven great-grandchildren, Lydia and Anissa Olson as well as Brody, Weston, Karina, Bennett, and Bronson Theede; siblings, Charlene (Gerry) Hegland, Olive Ann (Karrol) Boyum, Winifred (Carroll) Johnson; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Eugene A. Hanson; parents, Bernhard and Karina; brother, Wesley Sande; sister, Elsie 'Delores' Sande.
A Funeral Service for Bernice will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 4 at Grace Lutheran Church in Peterson, MN. Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM on Wednesday, November 3 at the Hoff Funeral Home in Rushford as well as one hour prior to the funeral service on Thursday at church. Interment will be at the Grace West Cemetery of Peterson.
Tributes
"Julie, I\'m thinking of you and your family. Your mother sounds like a wonderful woman. Love, Bridget "
"Oh my wonderful Aunt Berniece and Uncle Eugene, they became sort of a second set of parents. When Mom died they were always there for us kids, the came to Winona for my retirement party and to many events for us. Aunt Bernie?s treats were the best. I have so many wonderful memories of time at the farm. My love to all of you , we must stay in touch and keep those memories alive in our hearts. ?? Dian"
"Bernice what a sweet lady! She was a hard worker on the farm that she truly loved, along with the love of her life Eugene! What a great pair those two made! She loved her family so much & always made everyone feel so welcomed at their home! She will be missed by a lot of people. God bless all of you as you journey through this very sad time? Dean & Nancy Brown"
"So sorry to hear of great aunt Bernice passing. She was such a wonderful woman who always had a smile on her face & a hug in her arms. I always loved going with dad (Dick Rasmussen) to visit your folks. I have a lot of special memories of them both. They are together again wrapped in the Lord\'s arms. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. "
"Peggy- I am sad to read of your Mom?s passing! I will always remember her as being one of the sweetest women I?ve known! Hugs! Anne Spartz"
" Kathy, I am so sorry to hear of your mom\'s passing. My prayers are with you and the rest of your family. Patti Manna"