Dorothy Erna Hanson

Dorothy Erna Janssen Hanson was born on August 6, 1931 in the little town of Ireton, Iowa. The youngest of eight children she was born into a lively and happy family on a farm. Dorothy moved to town as a young adult and attended school in LeMars, Iowa.

She meet Eugene Hanson at a bowling game during Luther League, her prowess at the game bowled Eugene over and they were married in 1949. Together they ministered and served two churches in Iowa. In 1963 they moved to Southern California, a far cry from the little towns in Iowa.

Dorothy worked as an office manager and eventually served as the founding force behind the Stroke Activity Center in Palm Springs in the early 80’s. Dorothy’s concern, heart, people skills and wisdom made her the perfect friend to lead stroke patients and their families through such a difficult time.

At the age of 65, Dorothy earned her Bachelors Of Arts degree in English from Cal State. She and Eugene enjoyed traveling and visited many countries together. One crazy trip, they criss-crossed the east coast and down to the islands with twenty seven flights in 3 weeks. When visiting down under, she was honored as a speaker in Australia.

Her hobbies included sewing, cooking and baking. Her world famous Sweet Rolls will be missed. She also enjoyed writing and her blog for seniors, Aged and in Charge, inspired seniors to live their best life.

After 53 years in the desert Dorothy moved to Grants Pass, Oregon to be with her daughter and family.

She is survived by her daughter, son, their spouses and her two much loved grandsons. Beloved Mother, Grandmother, wife, sister, aunt, friend and mentor. You are missed.

August 6, 1931 to July 19, 2020.