RACINE – Kelli Ann Hansen, 53, passed away at  Ascension All Saints on Tuesday, October 18, 2016.

She was born in Racine on June 9, 1963. She graduated from Washington Park High School and UW Parkside.

She was employed as a parole officer by the State of Wisconsin.

Kelli danced to the beat of her own drum and embraced the uniqueness in all of her loved ones. She had a one-of-a-kind laugh that could send even the solemnest person into a fit of giggles. Kelli loved to bake for her family and friends. Over the years, she was known for her Christmas cookies and elaborate desserts and dishes. She was very artistic and could often be found crocheting or painting. Kelli had a love for all animals and always had a house full of pets.

A compassionate mother and grandmother, she lived her life for her small family. Kelli taught her daughters the importance of being who you are, embracing your weirdness and basking in the freedom that gave you. She understood the beauty of doing nothing. She created many fond memories with her daughters who remember many occasions just sitting around the table laughing until they cried.

Kelli was a devoted mentor to many women in the AA community. She opened her heart and home in order to help others. She bravely shared her own life experiences to encourage healing. The women in her weekly meetings admired her authenticity and saw her as an inspirational role model who taught them dignity and grace. She touched everyone she came in contact with and will be dearly missed by many.

Kelli is survived by her daughters, Rebecca Hansen of Shawano, WI, Stephanie Smith of Racine; her granddaughter, Elainna Doughty; her brother Dale Hansen of California, her sister, Terri Ann Fox of N.C., her nephew, David (Amanda) Hansen; her great nephews, Ian and Benjamin Hansen and her loving friend and companion, Daniel Bishop of Franksville.  Kelli was preceded in death by her grandparents, Yolaine and Clarence Hansen.

Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 25, 2016 for a visitation and time to meet with her family from 4-6 p.m.  A service remembering and celebrating Kelli's life will follow at 6:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in Kelli's name have been suggested to A.A. Racine Area Central Office (3701 Durand Ave Racine, WI 53405).

Kelli's family extends a heartfelt thank you to the ICU nurses, Annie and Holly, at Wheaton Franciscan Ascension for the loving attention she received while under their care.

Service Details

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Visitation: 4-6 p.m.

Service: 6 p.m.

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home

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