Ellen and I met in Belle Plaine, MN, when we were in the 7th grade and "came of age" together. We became fast friends and were inseparable during much of our junior high school experience. We spent endless hours at each other's houses, and we both became immersed in each other's families - I have so many fond memories of Ellen's siblings and parents.
As I'm sure many can recall, junior high school is an awkward time of transitioning from the innocence of childhood into the complexity of adolescence - rapidly changing hormones, social pressure, emotional highs and lows, fighting for independence while still needing the anchor of home. Ellen and I were each other's best friends during this intense, and sometimes challenging, time. We shared deep secrets and a spirit of adventure. We could be quite mischievous, but there was always a spirit of naivete, simplicity, vulnerability, and sincerity. I trusted her with my soul, and she trusted me with hers. We had a deep connection that was effortless and safe. 
As we moved into high school, our paths diverged although we stayed connected through church, speech competitions, and school theater. As we became young adults, we would check in irregularly about marriage, parenting, and heartbreakingly, about divorce. 
Our lives went separate ways with moves to other parts of the country and with our respective careers. Ellen eventually returned to MN as she navigated her life with cancer, and we had the privilege of reconnecting at mature adults with the lessons of life softening the rough edges of earlier years. We enjoyed lunch in the Fall of 2025 with another classmate and made plans to reconnect in April of 2026. That April 2026 lunch never happened as Ellen passed away the previous month. I was devastated by the news as were my siblings who remember her well. I was so looking forward to growing our friendship again. My love for Ellen - and the times we shared - will remain with me forever. Thank you, my friend. Peace!

I have such deep and meaningful memories of Ellen, especially our road trip from Florida to Austin—the last time I saw her. She was on her way to San Diego, continuing her life’s journey with that same spirit and warmth we all knew and loved.
I will truly miss her, and I will always hold onto those memories we shared. May her beautiful smile continue to bring light to all of us.
With heartfelt sympathy.

I will truly miss her, and I will always hold onto those memories we shared. May her beautiful smile continue to bring light to all of us.
With heartfelt sympathy.

She was on her way to San Diego, continuing her life’s journey with that same spirit and warmth we all knew and loved.

I have such deep and meaningful memories of Ellen, especially our road trip from Florida to Austin—the last time I saw her.

Ellen was a force of nature and we loved her. She sold us our first boat and we all became fast friends - trips to Bimini, Cat Cay, Ocean Reef Club, BVIs and the Keys, snorkeling Honeymoon Harbor with that giant Eagle Ray that passed us, running the golf carts in Ocean Reef with you yelling at me to go faster and Nora telling you we couldn’t because she and I were 2 fat ladies holding us back. You and I leaving the SeaRay anchor light up twice which hit the bridge and you calling service out to replace it asap before Nora found out and then confessing. Always a story -  Laughter and fun times always. 

Ellen had real courage - holding her own with the boys and  running circles around all of us - constantly networking, sharing and always inclusive and always fun with a mischievous streak. We will always remember her smile and contagious sense of adventure. You’re gone far too soon, my friend.  You fought the good fight El and while we fought and argued so over your path, we knew you had to carry on your way.   We all do.

A life well-lived, Ellen. Nora and I love you dearly and will carry you in our hearts forever. You left us with wonderful memories and we were so fortunate to have you in our lives. Godspeed and know you’re sorely missed. RIP sweet El.

OBITUARY

Ellen Marie Hanson

May 5, 1960 – March 10, 2026

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