Connie Hanson

Connie Hansen, aged 81, died at her Forest Hills residence on July 22. She is survived by her husband Derek, with whom she was married for over 50 years, her sons Brent and Reid, and granddaughter Lacy, and her sister-in-law Nancy Cook. In addition, dozens of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Many friends in Cincinnati, Chicago and Arizona. Beth in Phoenix was a very special friend and telephoned often. Preceded in death by her parents Herman and Polly Cook and brothers Skip and David and Bert and Dot Hanson of Lowell. Dave was her mentor, guide and idol her entire life.

Connie attended schools in East Grand Rapids, Birmingham (MI), and Indian Hills (Cincinnati). She pursued studies at Albion College and Grand Valley State University. Her work experience includes positions at Kroger, Chubb Insurance, Steelcase Corporate, and ownership of “The Basket Lady.” Connie participated in services at Mayflower and Ada Congregational Churches, and Armstrong Chapel in Cincinnati. She volunteered with the Grand Rapids Junior League for many years.

She enjoyed travel and sports, visiting Mexico, Japan, Europe, summers swimming and boating at the Lake Michigan home, she indulged with a Pronto Pup every summer for 75 years and loved high speed jet skiing at the Morrison Lake cottage. Winters were spent shelling, boating and fishing on Florida’s Gulf Coast, once catching a tarpon the same size she was, and very fond of fresh seafood. An accomplished skier, she took trips to Snowmass, Vail, Winter Park, many family trips to Boyne Country, and the Swiss Alps with the Cincinnati Ski Club. Her lifelong goal was to beat her brother Dave down the slopes at least once. Also, the first in the Baywood family to try parasailing.

In her final days, Connie reflected on her religious beliefs and expressed great affection for her family members, sons and granddaughter. She often told Lacy that she loved her “to the moon and back.” Derek will deeply miss her.

A private memorial is planned for Grand Haven. In place of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the Mary Free Bed Hospital program, www.maryfreebed.com.