Maxine N. Hanson

Maxine N. Hanson of Albert Lea passed away on Sunday, November 2nd at St. John’s Lutheran Community at the age of 102. The service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 7th, 2025, at First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. Visitation will begin one hour prior.

Maxine was born to Martin and Nina Reese in Hartland, Minnesota on November 3, 1922. On September 14, 1941, Maxine married her loving husband, Harlan H. Hanson of Clarks Grove. Together the two raised three daughters and two sons – Judy, Janice, Jackie, Jeff and Jay.

She was confirmed in the Ellendale Lutheran Church by Pastor Knudtson in 1937, at the age of 14. Faith was a very important aspect in her life, and she became a dedicated member of the First Lutheran Church of Albert Lea, contributing her time to teaching Sunday School for many years, ALCW, Altar Guild, Mission Circle and Caring and Sharing. In addition to her commitment to her family and faith, Maxine supported her community as a member of the VFW Auxiliary and was on the board for the Albert Lea Senior Center.

Maxine had many hobbies: sewing quilts, playing Bingo and cards, tending to her flower garden, reading, watching the Twins and Vikings games, and spending time in the great outdoors while camping, fishing and hiking. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. As an avid traveler, she made many cherished memories while visiting several sites in Europe where her husband served during WWII. She traveled to many states, but Massachusetts and Colorado were her favorites.

Maxine is survived by her children: Judy (Gary) Johnson, Janice (Dennis) Brandt, Jackie (Lonnie) Groe, Jeffrey (Susan) Hanson, and daughter-in-law Lisa Hanson; grandchildren: Tony and Tim Johnson, Andrea Irlas and Jennifer Brandt, Randy and Scott Groe, Zach and Jake Hanson, Wyatt and Parker Hanson; great-grandchildren: Tonya and Matt Johnson, Tyler and Chad Johnson, Frankie and Xavier Irlas, Myla and Owen Groe, Jackson Groe, and Lucas Hanson; great-great granddaughter Paisley Johnson, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harlan H. Hanson, son Jay T. Hanson, parents Martin and Nina Reese and eight siblings.

The family would like to thank the staff of Mayo Hospice and St. John’s - Woodlands for the wonderful care Maxine received.