Hannelore Thanner

With great sorrow, the Kutka and Brown families announce the passing of our dear mother, Hannelore Thanner, at the age of 86. Hannelore will be remembered for her strength, courage, deep love of family, and steadfast faith.

Hannelore is predeceased by her first husband Jozef Kutka and her second husband Andreas Thanner. She is also predeceased by her mother Margarete Rota, daughter Maria Kutka, and sister Kathe Tydik. Mom is survived by her sons Stefan and Marek (Nancy Bettcher), daughter Katarina Brown (Randy), grandaughter Lauren, and sister Elke Vollmer. Hannelore will be fondly remembered by her nephews, and many friends, especially those at St. Alphonsus Church and the Neocatechuminal Way.

Mom was born in Nürnberg, Germany to Margarete Doerr and Wilhelm Vollmer, on May 6, 1940. Germany was a difficult place to grow up during and after World War II, but this contributed to her strength, courage, determination, and faith. In her teenage years, Mom studied to become a kindergarten teacher, solidifying her enduring love for children.

Hannelore emigrated to Canada in the mid-1950’s, settling in as a nanny in Winnipeg. This, too, was a difficult period for her as she did not speak English, and dearly missed her mother who still resided in Germany. Mom would eventually meet Jozef Kutka who took mom to church on their first date. They had four children: Maria, Katarina, Stefan, and Marek. Mom’s kids were always the center of her life. For many years, mom worked as a seamstress for Raber Glove in the North End, at both the factory and from home. Mom would later find a new retail career in retirement, working at the Forks at both the Fort Whyte Nature Company and La Hacienda. Mom loved working at both these places, and her customers and fellow staff members loved her.

After Jozef died in 1982, mom met, and married Andreas Thanner. Andy was a true blessing for mom, and a second chance to experience love, and life. Mom and Andy had many great years together, fixing up their home and simply enjoying life. They enjoyed travelling to Waterton Lakes, Germany, Italy, and many other places.

Hannelore lost her first born, Maria, to cancer in 2006. This loss was devastating, but, once again, mom showed courage and strength and an ability to move forward.

Hannelore was an amazing cook and baker. She loved people and relationship, even with strangers she just met. Mom loved animals, nature, and reading.

Hannelore had a severe stroke four years ago. The doctors at first weren’t sure that she would survive. Then, after she beat the odds, they said she wouldn’t likely regain her speech or ability to walk. I recall playing some Catholic hymns for her as she lay in her hospital bed. Under the covers, eyes still closed, her feet tapped to the rhythm of the music. A number of days later, she spoke her first words, “I love you.” Strength, courage, and determination.

The following four years weren’t easy, but they were filled with many blessings. She treasured and maintained her connection to St. Alphonsus and the Neocatecuminal Way with the help of her friend Rose.

Another stroke in mid-July landed her at HSC once again. Hannelore passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

Hannelore Thanner went through a great deal in her life, but was always a light in the world. Her faith, strength, courage, and determination were truly inspirational.

A celebration of her life will be held on Wednesday, September 30 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Church, 315 Munroe Avenue. If you would like to honour Hannelore with a gift, donations can be made to either Craig Street Cats or the Winnipeg Humane Society.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)