Nellie Hanson

Nellie “Nell” Kate (Harmon) Hanson, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2026, at age 91, with family by her side at Thornecrest Facility.

She was married to Paul W. Hanson December 21, 1955 and after completing her nursing degree in Lynchburg VA they lived the rest of their lives in Albert Lea, MN. They had three children: Bruce (Stella) Ft. Myers, F, Debbie Tillman (Mike) St. Cloud, MN, and Scott Hanson (Holly) The Woodlands, TX. Grandchildren include: Tim Hanson and Betsy Hemmerdinger, Brett, Chris and Jessica Tillman, Hannah and Britain Hanson. She had seven great grandchildren.

Nell was born March 22, 1932, to Turner and Leona Harmon in Lebanon, VA and the oldest daughter of six children. Their family was able to visit Lebanon VA each summer to the family farm while growing up and have many fond memories of those visits. Of particular fond memory was Leona Harmon (mother), who made sure their visit was memorable and made lasting connections with the children. Peggy and John Nininger of Louisville, KY and Maxine survive Nell. Her brothers and sisters have predeceased her, Leonard (Darlene) Harmon, Mary (Ted) Linkus, Rachel Hawks, and Joe Harmon.

She had numerous nieces, nephews, and their children. Nell loved children and after spending 40 years in the nursery at Naeve hospital, she probably was there for thousands of births and infants. If a doctor needed an IV in a newborn, Nell was tapped to do the job, a recognized specialty. 

She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. Church activities, weekly worship, left making, soup and salad luncheon preps were activities she and Paul engaged in.

Nell was so proud of her children and grandchildren. She shared photos and stories of their accomplishments and adventures. She championed anyone who was experiencing life difficulties. Family-wise, Nell was always there to help with every project, every event, every social gathering to work behind the scenes, making it go smoothly. Prepping, cleanup, packing, unpacking, never complained, steadfast and totally dependable.

Nell never demanded or expected recognition, or praise. She was just quietly there for whatever was needed.

She will be missed.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:30PM on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services in Albert Lea, with a visitation beginning at 1:00PM. Burial will be held at Geneva Cemetery in Geneva, MN.