Struppi Hanneford

Hanneford, Struppi
Sep. 26, 1931 - Nov. 1, 2014
Princess Tajana Circus Legend Dies
Struppi Hanneford, circus star known professionally as 'Princess Tajana', has lost a valiant battle to colon cancer, Nov. 1, 2014, Struppi passed peacefully in her sleep, at home, with her loving daughter Nellie at her side.
Born, Sept. 26, 1931 in Germany, she reached stardom as an aerialist, she began learning trapeze at age 7, turning professional at the age of 15. She performed in European circuses and in 1953 with the Mills Brothers Circus in The United States.
She married Tommy Hanneford in 1955 when she first became billed as 'Princess Tajana'. When an arm and shoulder injury forced her off the trapeze, she soon learned a wild animal act in which she was equally successful.
As Princess Tajana, performed on every major Shrine date in the US, At the World's Fair in New York City, the CNE in Canada, and numerous TV shows, including Hollywood Palace, the Milton Berle Show, and 3 times on the Ed Sullivan show.
Preceded in death by her Husband Thomas Hanneford, Struppi leaves behind, her Daughter Nellie Hanneford Poema, Son-in-law Adrian Poema, Grandchildren Cathy, Mariana, Adrian Jr., and Tommy Poema. Her sister in Germany Ursala Hanemann, Niece, Baerbel Hanemann, Nephews Jani and Tobias Hanemann; Billy, Charlie, Alan, and Danny Hixon; Her Circus Family, and faithful fans. Loved by all, worshiped by many, she will never be forgotten.
She always said her happiest days were spent in the air, we have our own Circus Angel watching over us and making sure we continue the tradition of the Royal Hanneford Circus.
Services will be at St. Martha's Church, 10:00 AM. Dec. 19, 2014.
Celebration of her life 6PM, Showfolks Club, Dec. 19, 2014.