V. Joanne “Jody” Hansen
Witty, classy, traditional, and always nurturing, our beloved V. Joanne “Jody” Hansen died peacefully while residing at the Village at Skyline, on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 after an extended illness due to advanced Parkinson’s Plus.
Born June 20, 1932 to Leonard and Ferne Ritter in Phillipsburg, Kansas, Jody enjoyed the life of a small town girl. She attended schools in Phillipsburg, Kansas; Washburn University, Kansas; and USC Pueblo, Colorado. She was a member of Alpha Phi sorority. After graduating from Washburn, Jody met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Hansen and they married on February 6, 1954.
She began her career as an elementary school teacher in Kansas. Seven years later Jody, Bob, and their two sons moved to Colorado Springs where they spent many wonderful years actively involved in community life. Jody worked and excelled in her positions at the Air Force Academy, ENT Air Force Base, Fort Carson, and the Social Security Administration.
Jody was also very proud of her tenure on the Harrison School Board District 2. She was actively involved and instrumental in planning the opening of the new Harrison High School in 1969 along with the building and dedication of Harrison’s Memorial football field stadium.
After retirement, Jody loved playing bridge, socializing with friends, and spending time with her family. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents, and Jake her beloved canine companion.
Survivors include sons: Daniel L. (Sherry) Hansen, Jeffrey W. (Rhonda Kenny) Hansen; five grandsons: Jason, Will, Matt, Jeffrey, and Jared Hansen; and one granddaughter: Terra Hansen, who will sorely miss her grace and love.
At the request of the deceased, no public memorial service is planned. In her honor, Jody requested donations be made in her name to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, either online at https://www.hsppr.org/donatetohsppr, or send via mail to: 610 Abbot Lane, Colorado Springs, CO 80905.