May 25, 1932 – September 3, 2022
Elkhart — Kay Joan Christensen was born May 25, 1932, in Waukegan, Illinois. She was the beautiful daughter of August & Ann Christensen. She took her last breath in her home on September 3, 2022.
Kay became a lifelong member of Elkhart Methodist Church where she met her husband of 71 years, Wayne Hanner, whom she leaves behind. She also leaves behind her daughters: Dianne (Lyle) Fout, Boo Hanner, Cheri (Nubs) Gieseke, and Terri (Brian Hutchison) Jean. She was blessed with 11 grandchildren: Traci (Eric) Graue, Justin (Lora) Brown, Ashley (Dirk) Aper, Nibs (Heidi) Gieseke, Duane (Heather) Gieseke, Brent Gieseke, Jessica (Kevin) Foran, Nicole (Craig) Erlenbush, Andy (Danielle) Meister, Amy (Tim) Davis, Alexa (Josiah) Klokkenga, nephew Robb (Laura) Hanner and their son Nick, and brother-in-law Larry Hanner. Kay adored each of her 25 great-grandchildren: Lauren, Andrew, Parker, Carson, Avery, Nora, Devin, Rylan, Hensley, Willow, Grayson, Palmer, Ava, Emerson, Saylor, Graham, Alma, Eliza, Theo, Jack, Livi, Ella, Millie, Harrison, and Sadie Lou.
She is preceded in death by a son, Nick Hanner and granddaughter Michelle Conrady-Brown.
Throughout her life, Kay made a great impact on her family and friends while living with a positive and faithful outlook day after day. She felt each day was a blessing and gently reminded loved ones that life was too short. Kay had a gift of making others feel they were the most important person in her life by welcoming them with comments of gratitude, love and appreciation. She was genuine and intentional with her words while being selfless with her wisdom and love. Whether known as mom, wife, Grammi, Kay, Kay-ball, or “what’s her name”, you left her presence a better person. She left a legacy that can’t be replicated but will forever be in the hearts and memories of her family and loved ones.
A private family service will be arranged at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Kay to Elkhart Fire and Rescue.
Peasley Funeral Home is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
