Marie Hannah (Jensen) Hanson, having reached her 78th milestone of life’s journey, passed away Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, at her home in Albert Lea from a heart attack.

A second generation American on her father’s side, Marie was born Feb. 25, 1941, at home in Albert Lea to Nels Christian and Thornie (Sorbo) Jensen. She was named after both of her grandmothers.

Marie’s early career was waitressing, followed by several years at Miami Margarine before managing the concession stand at Starlite Drive-in Theater. Her favorite job was her last one as manager of Emmons Teen Center, where everyone knew her as Grandma and from whence she retired.

For the past three decades Marie spent her spare time decorating graves twice yearly with memorial flowers and wreaths for her loved ones, marked with unique remembrances for each individual, which numbered into the hundreds over time.

Her family remembers her special potato salad, which was always made in abundance for every gathering, and her pies for special occasions. Marie’s grandchildren remember how she lit up around kids — her own and others, and gave them a sense of security and love.

Survivors include her children Marilyn Flugum-James (Tom), Patty Berry, Jodie Hanson (Jose) and Doug Hanson (Denise); grandchildren Nicole, Justin, Mandy, Jon, Megan, Kody, Kyli, Heather, Tyler, Cody, Mandy and Lacy; as well as great-grandchildren.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Adolph C. Hanson, in 2016; mother in 1989; father in 1992; brothers LuVern in 2016 and James in 1939; and sister, Nylene, in 1949.

Private graveside services and inurnment were at Silver Lake Lutheran Church Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Silver Lake Lutheran Church Cemetery Fund at 705 Silver Lake Road, Northwood, IA 50459.

Marie was a life-time resident of Albert Lea.

Peace be with her memory.