J. Marlene (Ranta) Hanson

MARQUETTE, MI – J. “Marlene” (Ranta) Hanson was called home to her Lord on September 23, 2024. She peacefully entered eternal life under the care of her family, Brookridge Heights and Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice.

Marlene was born in Marquette, MI on a snowy day on November 17, 1932 to William and Mary (Laukka) Ranta of Green Garden location. She spent her younger years growing up on the farm of the Hillcrest Dairy where her father was the owner/proprietor. She graduated in 1951 from Graveraet High School, enrolling soon after at St. Luke’s School of Nursing. As a proud nurse she began her career working at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, MI and various places in the Marquette area over the years.

Marlene remained a life-long Wolverine fan and enjoyed many games in person and on television even though she admitted she knew nothing about football. After relocating to Marquette, she and Robert Hanson of Skandia were united in marriage on June 14, 1958 and began their family and new life together. They remained in Marquette for their entire marriage and life. She truly embodied SISU and her Finnish roots and one highlight was traveling to Finland with husband Bob. “Camp” was a cabin at Little Shag Lake where Marlene and her siblings grew up. The family spent countless days in the water swimming, boating and enjoying their little piece of heaven. Gwinn was a special place indeed and continues to be so for all of us.

Marlene is survived by her two children, Deanne (Hanson) Pynnonen and her husband Dr. Scott Pynnonen of East Bass Lake in Gwinn, MI and son, Scott William Hanson and his wife Lynndee (Brown) Hanson of Marquette. Loving grandchildren are, Katie Marie Pynnonen of Phoenix, AZ and David (Heather) Pynnonen of Champion, MI. Her cherished great-grandchildren are Brooks David Pynnonen and Alexis Eve Pynnonen of Champion. Also surviving are sisters, Sheila (Michael) Hoyles of North Venice, FL, Catherine (Tony) Peterson of Port St. Lucie, FL and sister-in-law, Nancy Ranta of Negaunee. Marlene is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Mary and William Ranta, her beloved husband of 61 years, Robert W. Hanson and her brother, Robert William Ranta.

At Marlene’s request there will be no visitation. A private service will take place November 7, 2024 for the immediate family at Redeemer Lutheran Church, where Marlene and Bob were lifetime members. Burial will take place at Park Cemetery.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting Marlene’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.