Georgianna Hastert

Georgianna “George” Hastert was born on November 28, 1943, to John and Gladys (Marchel) Hansen at the Onawa Hospital. She attended school in Onawa and graduated with the Class of 1962. After high school, George attended beauty school and became a licensed cosmetologist. She worked alongside her mother at Hansen’s Beauty Shop in Onawa. In 1972, George married Phil Niles, and a son, Brett, was born to this union.

After her mother’s retirement, George joined her dear friend Cheri Nelson at Cheri’s salon, The Hair Loft, where she continued to work until her own retirement.

On June 30, 1989, George was united in marriage to Joseph “Joe” Hastert in Denison. The couple made their home on a farm northwest of Panama.

In her early years, George enjoyed bowling and spending time with her parents, family and friends. She always enjoyed gardening and took great pride in her flowers and vegetable garden. She enjoyed canning, reading, writing, crafting, crocheting, and knitting. A wonderful cook and baker, she was especially known for her Christmas cookie spread and the many baked goods she lovingly shared. She and Joe enjoyed entertaining family and friends and were known for their warm hospitality. George worked hard on the farm—doing chores, preparing meals, and keeping everything running smoothly.

She loved movies, especially Gone with the Wind, and found joy in so many things. Always active and hard to keep up with, she was truly a Renaissance woman in every sense.

Georgianna passed away on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Azria Health Rose Vista in Woodbine, having attained the age of 81 years, 11 months, and 4 days.

In addition to her parents, John and Gladys Hansen, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Hastert; and brother, Bill Hansen. She is survived by her son, Brett (Diane) Niles of Turin; Brett’s father, Phil Niles of Onawa; sister-in-law, Rosie Hansen of Winthrop, IA; nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Private graveside services will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Panama. Memorials may be directed to the Onawa Public Library or Myrtue Medical Center Hospice in Georgianna’s name.