Barbara Jean Hansen

Barbara Jean Hansen, age 79, of Chester, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Bethel Lutheran Home in Madison. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 AM Friday, March 21, 2025, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Madison. Interment will be in the Franklin Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 PM Thursday, at the Minnehaha Funeral Chapel in Colton, with a prayer service beginning at 7:00 PM.

Barb was born on March 22, 1945 to Alvin and Jeannette (Ahrendt) Kasten in Sioux Falls, SD. Barb grew up in the Monroe, SD area and attended country school through 8th grade. On February 24, 1964, she married Kenneth Hansen, Sr. Together, they built a home near Franklin, SD where they raised their six children. Barbara also embraced her role as a step-mother to nine children, offering them love, guidance, and a nurturing heart, especially to the younger step-children. Her step-children include Claretta Cunningham, Bonnie Hooten, Robert Hansen, Kenny (Earline) Hansen, Joe Hansen, Bill (Lori) Hansen, Tony (Debi) Hansen, Jeanie Edwards, and Viola (Bill) Anderson.

Barb was known for her unwavering work ethic. After having children, she took her first job at the nursing home in Chester. She later worked at Westbrook Apartments for 22 years, contributed to the Madison Daily Leader, and cleaned houses part-time. No matter what she did, she gave it her all.

More than anything, Barbara will be remembered for her infectious laughter, quick wit, and warm heart. She had a way of delivering the perfect one-liner at just the right moment, keeping those around her smiling. She enjoyed a warm beer, a good chat, and her favorite video lottery machines, never missing a chance for a little fun.

Barbara had an incredible memory, never forgetting a birthday, a phone number, or an important occasion. She made everyone feel special, always taking time to celebrate and cherish the ones she loved.

On March 13, 2025, Barbara passed away at Bethel Lutheran Home in Madison, SD at the age of 79. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Survivors include her children and grandchildren: Kim (Lisa) Hansen, Chester, SD, and children, Wyatt Hansen, Clay Hansen, Garret Hansen, and Valerie Hansen; Skeeter (Angela) Hansen, Madison, SD, and children, Ian Alverson, Brandon Hansen, Brittney Swanson, and Haley Wilson; Betty (Rick) Rook, Madison, SD, and children, Ryan Rook and Raine Rook; Linnette Oolman, Sioux Falls, SD, and children, Natasha Hansen, Ellie Oolman, Ethan Oolman, and Rachel Oolman; Rhonda Wellman, Watertown, SD, and children, Meranda Reis, Dustin Wellman, Darin Wellman, Megan Converse, and Clay Wellman; and John (Marlena) Hansen, and children, Sophia Hansen, Kenslee Hansen, Paxton Hansen, Evan Hansen, Piper Nielsen, Peyton Nielsen; sister, Bonnie (Bill) Banks, and brothers, Larry (Teri) Kasten and Pat (Patsy) Weegar.

She was preceded in death by her parents; step-dad Keith Weegar; husband, Kenneth Hansen, Sr.; siblings, Dick Kasten, Joel Kasten, and Mike Weegar; step-children: Claretta Cunningham, Bonnie Hooten, Joe Hansen, Robert Hansen, and Jeanie Edwards; and grandchildren: Milo Hansen, Joel Hansen, Chris Hansen, and Mari Anderson.