Gail Elizabeth Hansen

Gail Elizabeth Hansen, the daughter of William and Mercedes (Mayronne) Roberts was born August 15, 1940 in New Orleans, LA. Her childhood years were spent in New Orleans where she attended and graduated from an all-girls Catholic High School. She then attended University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

A southern girl at heart, she always kept her Cajun roots and was known as the “Classy Cajun Lady” wherever she went. One day, she caught the eye of a U.S. Air Force Navigator Jack Hansen and they were married in San Antonio TX. They enjoyed living the military life, traveling to different places and living in new cities. Everywhere she went, Gail loved to be involved in her community and gave selflessly to those in need. She held the post as director for the foster care program in Mississippi for many years along with staying actively involved in her church through leading bible studies, hosting children’s vacation bible school, going on medical mission trips to Mexico, and sponsoring orphanages in India. Helping others was a constant in her life and she will be remembered for her giving heart.

Gail also had an entrepreneurial spirit, deep love for animals, and was known for her good humor. Some of her successful endeavors included running a Charter Boat company, Bed & Breakfast, hosting a radio show, and serving as a Vet aide. When she wasn’t working, she loved to volunteer at her local ASPCA. Animals were very special to Gail and she had many beloved dogs & cats as well as four donkeys. Not only were animals lucky to have her in their lives, but she was so fun to be with. Always looking for a good laugh with a strong dose of dry humor it was hard not to have a smile on your face when she was near.

After retiring from military life, Gail and Jack moved to Sioux Rapids where they ran the Bed & Breakfast, The Hansen House, for ten years. Gail enjoyed bringing her southern cooking flare to Iowa and was known as the best local Cajun cook in town. After closing their B&B, they settled in Linn Grove, IA where they had a small farm with their donkeys. She enjoyed her days there gardening, bird watching, cooking, taking care of her animals, reading, and spending time with her precious grandchildren & great-grandchildren.

Gail passed away on Thursday, July 20, 2023 at her home, at the age of 82. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mercedes and William Roberts and an infant son, Andrew.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband Jack of Linn Grove, IA; one sister, Mercedes Veca of New Orleans, LA; 4 children, Jodi Tate of Montgomery, TX, Donnette Hansen of Houston, TX, Douglas Dunkin of Harlingen, TX, and Christopher Hansen of Gulf Port, MS; 6 grandchildren, Alexandra Tate, Bria Tate, Calli Jordan, Dakota Tate-Garber, Lloyd Dunkin, and Anna DeLaney; 5 great-grandchildren; other relatives; and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are to be designated to Sioux Rapids Rebel Pack. Contact Linda Patterson at 4735 70th Ave, Linn Grove, IA 51033, phone 712-296-3957.