Leona Eldora Hanson

A grand-daughter of Norwegian and German immigrants, Leona was born May 3, 1929 in Wahpeton, N.D.,the fifth of nine children. She passed six days prior to her 94th birthday at Wellspring Meadows in Hayden, Idaho surrounded by her family, and her loving caregivers. She lived in Petaluma, California for 47 years and moved to Dahmens Square, Spokane Valley, Washington in 2000.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 25 years, Jim Hanson, (2003), her first husband (of 28 years) Ken Anderson (2000), parents Walter and Ebba Olson Schmidt, 4 brothers, 3 sisters, numerous brother and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and a step- grandson. She is survived by her 3 children, Ron (Geneva) Anderson, Dianne (Larry) Lewman and former son-in-law Larry Wasley, Linda (Lyle) Olson. She is also survived by her 3 stepchildren Joanne (Rich) Torres, Larry (Kimberly Burr) Hanson, and Wayne Hanson. She leaves behind 8 grandchildren, 28 great- grandchildren, 1 sister, 3 sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Leona was a lifetime member of the Church of God and the Assemblies of God. She was a frequent soloist at Church and Weddings. When she was a young teen, a record was made of her and two of her sisters singing Christian songs. She was also the Sunday School Secretary. She had short-time book-keeper jobs while in Petaluma and for a few years provided childcare in her home. Mainly she was a Mom and Homemaker and a fabulous cook and baker! Her German strudels, Lefsa, Fried Chicken and Nut-bread were family and friend’s favorites! While married to Ken, there were several memorable family vacations throughout California and road trips to Minn. and N.D.

Leona and Jim traveled frequently on a motorcycle and in a Motorhome, taking many day trips to Bodega Bay, Calif., her favorite..enjoying the ocean and frisbee with Jim’s brothers and the grandkids. They took yearly trips to Oregon and Washington to spend time with family. She loved playing card and dice games and having sing-a-longs with family and friends. Her dad called her “dolly-dimples” when she was a child; her smile was her best feature! She was loved by many and will be missed.

Her family is so grateful to Wellspring Meadows and the care she received her last year of life. A true testimony that goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our life!

Funeral Service to be held at Thornhill Valley Chapel on May 4, 2023 at 1:00 pm.

1400 S. Pines Road, Spokane Valley, WA. 99206. Graveside Service to be held at Pines Cemetery following the service, 1402 S Pines Road, Spokane Valley, WA. 99206.