Florence Hansen

Florence Hansen, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend, peacefully passed away at the age of 94 at St. Catherine’s Living Center, Wahpeton, ND, on June 3, 2025. Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Campbell, MN, with Rev. Craig Pallach presiding. The service will begin at 11:00 am with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery, Campbell, MN.

Born on February 5, 1931, to John and Sarah (Grussing) Bontjes, Florence was the youngest of 12 children. She lived a life filled with warmth, kindness, and a fierce love for her family and community. Florence's educational journey began at District 65 Country School near Kent, MN, where her love for learning took root. Raised on the family farm, she learned the value of hard work, which she carried into every endeavor of her life. In a true testament to her strength and generosity, Florence lovingly helped her sister, Hilda, raise her children, instilling in them the same caring spirit that defined her own life.

On June 12, 1949, Florence married the love of her life, Henry Hansen, at Christ Lutheran Church in Mitchell Township near Wolverton, MN. Together, they built a family and nurtured a home filled with love. Florence worked at Sam's Café in Breckenridge, MN, and later dedicated 15 years to Medallion Kitchen in Fergus Falls, MN. Her caring nature shone brightly in her role as a housekeeper at St. Catherine's Living Center in Wahpeton, ND, for 13 years, where she touched the lives of many with her gentle demeanor and kind smile. For most of her life, she lived on the family farm near Doran, where she hosted countless family gatherings in the garage, a warm and welcoming space where everyone felt at home. She was most happy when surrounded by her loved ones, whether celebrating something special or simply spending quiet time together. An exceptional baker, Florence was famous for her caramel rolls that delighted family and friends alike. She poured her heart into crocheting gifts for loved ones, from delicate doilies and festive Christmas ornaments to cozy blankets and whimsical baby hats that looked like pumpkins…or pickles! Just as her creations brought joy to others, Florence was described as the embodiment of love—warm, generous, caring, and the best mother anyone could ever hope for.

Florence is survived by her loving children: James (Delores) Hansen, Campbell, MN, Diane (Robert) Heinert, Fergus Falls, MN, Joan Patrick, Fairmount, ND, Donna (Duane) Rogahn, Campbell, MN, and Gail (Rodney) Olson, Mapleton, ND; 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry; parents John & Sarah Bontjes; sisters: Rena Math, Hilda Ernst, Jenny Seivert, Gladys Forchen; brothers: Harold, George, Clarence, Andy, Henry, Leroy and Edwin Bontjes; grandson Joshua Patrick; and son-in-law Craig Patrick.

Florence’s family would like to express their most sincere gratitude and appreciation to the staff of St. Catherine’s Living Center for the loving care that Florence received during her time there.