Algena Madeline Cathcart Hansen

Algena Madeline Cathcart Hansen, 97 years old, left this earth to be with God May 13, 2013 at Hospice of N E Florida (Jacksonville, FL.)

Mrs. Hansen was born and raised in Chicago, the daughter of Dr, James Alexander Cathcart ( of Armstrong County., Pa.) and Mary ( May ) Louise Knaup ( of Beaver Dam , Wisc. -- they were married in Milwaukee, W isc.). After graduating 2 years late from high school to nurse her Mother who had kidney cancer, she worked in Chicago and participated in the 1933 Chicago's World Fair driving an Armour hot dog car with several other redheads. Marrying Anthony Don Hansen in 1937, they settled on Cregier Avenue in Chicago and raised 5 children. They moved to Munster, Indiana to continue the business of Q.T. Brands. They later moved after several years to retire to Largo, Florida. Enjoying their retirement with family and friends with golf, bridge (she was an ace player --even bid 7 NT and made it the week before she went to the hospital!!), activities and also volunteered at the local hospital.

After several years they moved to Jacksonville, Fl. to be closer to their son , Chuck and his wife, Shirley. While there she also volunteered her time, yarn and knitting talents by knitting baby hats and booties for local organizations as well as making hundreds of rosaries for her church.

Survivors include her dear husband A. Don Hansen; 5 children: Barbara (Joe) McCourt (Manteno, Il.). Chuck (Shirley) Hansen (Jacksonville, Fl.), Bill (Kathy) Hansen (North Richland Hills, Texas), Donna Jean (Morris) Watson (Columbus, In.) , John (Diane ) Hansen (Munster, In.) , 17 grandchildren , 16 great-grandchildren , a niece, Mary Catherine (Rudy) Peterson (Iowa), a nephew, Bill (Kitty) Garner (Iowa) and several great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Helen Cathcart Garner and a grandson, Daniel McCourt.

According with her wishes, she will be cremated. A memorial Mass will be said on June 1, 2013 at 11:00 at San Jose Catholic Church , 3619 Toledo Rd., 32217 (904-333-1630) , Jacksonville, Fl with Fr. Michael Larkin presiding (retired).  Contributions may be made to Hospice of NE Florida or San Jose Catholic Church .

A loving wife and a beautiful Mother and Grandmother --- we will all miss her dearly.