Betty A. Hanson, age 82, of Tomahawk, WI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2026, in Tomahawk, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Betty was born on July 7, 1943, in Tomahawk, WI, to the late Robert and Effie (Erickson) Belliveau. She was a proud graduate of Tomahawk High School, Class of 1961. On November 10, 1962, she married the love of her life, James Hanson, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with devotion, hard work, and joy.
Betty was known as a dedicated, hardworking woman who adored her grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with her family. Her caring nature made everyone feel welcome and she loved cooking and baking, hosting parties, and filling her home with laughter. An active volunteer, Betty proudly served with the Gray Ladies for Red Cross at Sacred Heart Hospital in Tomahawk. Her generous spirit extended far beyond her community. She volunteered with the Red Cross in Alexandria, LA, following Hurricane Katrina, delivering food and supplies to shelters, and continued her service during Hurricane Rita. Betty was also a faithful and active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church where she helped serve funeral meals and supported church activities. She enjoyed traveling across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, in addition to a few other countries. She loved trips to the casino and playing card games, especially canasta. She also loved camping, fishing, and pontoon rides. For 15 years, Betty and Jim raised and sold Christmas trees, a career that reflected their strong work ethic and love of family traditions. Betty will be remembered for her great sense of humor, her beautiful smile, and her ability to make everyone feel at home.
Survivors include her husband, James Hanson; her son, James Hanson (Crystal); her daughter, Jacquelyn Hanson-Hietala (Scott); her brother, Don Belliveau; and her sisters, Mary Tushoski (Tina) and Jean Slesicki (Michael). She is further survived by her grandchildren, Jimmie Mills (Natasha Korby), Randy Hanson-Hietala, Molly Hanson (Jason Kueffer), Kaylie Hietala, Molli Peterson, Journey Esterly-Clark, and Maggie Peterson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Effie; her brother, Robert Belliveau, Jr.; and her sister, Patricia Guolee.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Deacon David Bablick will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation from 10:00 AM until the time of services at 12:00 PM. Memorials are appreciated to Patient Access Network Foundation, St. Mary’s Catholic School, or TAIV. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Betty’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.
