Sr. Paul Ann Hanneken

Helen Margaret Hanneken was born on January 15, 1932, the fourth of five children born to Alma and Harry Hanneken. She attended St. John Elementary School and then Notre Dame Academy, Covington, Kentucky. In her senior year, Helen joined the Sisters of Notre Dame. At her investment as a novice, she received the name Sister Mary Paul Ann. Sister professed her first vows on August 16, 1952. Two years later, her younger sister, Alma Ann, followed, becoming known as Sister Mary Paulla. The two were inseparable.

As a second-year novice, Sister Mary Paul Ann embarked on her teaching career, dedicating herself to elementary education. Her ministries included St. Joseph, Cold Spring, and St. Stephen, Newport, Kentucky. She then went on to St Aloysius Orphanage and St. Columban School in Ohio. She enjoyed teaching the little ones and preparing them for their First Holy Communion.

Sister Mary Paul Ann served her SND Community in a variety of roles: as Postulant Directress, Novice Directress, and Local Superior/Coordinator to the sisters. Many recall the supportive guidance and patience she showed during her leadership service.

She found her greatest fulfillment in ministering to the young women at Notre Dame Academy. Sister faithfully served as a guidance counselor, admissions director, and work study coordinator. Together with Sister Mary Rachel Nerone, she led the Work Study Program for more than 25 years. Their management of the program not only made a Notre Dame Academy education accessible to more families but also instilled in the young women a lifelong sense of pride and ownership in their school. Even in retirement, Sister remained a continued presence, encouraging and supporting her NDA students.

Sister Mary Paul Ann passed away peacefully on the morning of September 3, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Arthur and Paul, and her sister, Sister Mary Paulla, SND. Sister leaves behind her sister, Rose Mary O’Brien and dearest friend, Sister Mary Rachel Nerone, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Sister Mary Paul Ann was cherished for her kindness, joy, and fun-loving spirit. Whether cheering on her adored NDA Pandas from the stands, greeting students in the hallways, or offering prayers for families in need, she lived her vocation with grace and joy. She was the best of the best--an extraordinary servant leader whose life reflected the heart of the Sisters of Notre Dame. Sister Mary Paul Ann profoundly impacted countless lives. She will remain in our hearts forever.

May Sister Mary Paul Ann rest in the love of our good and gracious God.

Visitation will begin at 8:30 AM on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at St. Agnes Church, Ft. Wright, Kentucky. The Remembrance Tribute Service will begin at 10:45 AM, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. Interment in the convent cemetery will follow the Mass.

Memorials are requested to The Sisters of Notre Dame, Covington, Kentucky.