Stella Jean Hansen — June 11, 1925 - Dec. 18, 2025

    Our beloved mother and grandmother, Stella Jean Hansen, 100, passed away on Dec. 18, 2025 in Missoula. Stella was born on June 11, 1925 in Deer Lodge to Wilbur and Mabel Hoskyn.
    Stella graduated from Powell County High School and went on to study nursing in Helena as part of the Cadet Nursing Corp during WWII. Stella married Douglas Hansen in 1945. Doug and Stella operated the Hansen Dairy in Deer Lodge before moving to Missoula in 1953 where they raised their six children and operated Hansen’s Famous Ice Cream. They were married for 52 years.
    Stella was active in local issues and was elected as a Representative to the Montana Legislature for six terms from 1983-1995. Stella was a committed Democrat, passionate about issues related to public health, education and fairly meeting the needs of all Montanans. Stella was a member of the Reorganized Church of Latter Day Saints where she served as a pastor and later was a member of the University Congregational Church.
    Stella is survived by her children Jennifer (William) Cote, Michael (Pam) Hansen, daughter-in-law Maureen Hansen (Aaron), Rebecca Hansen, Sarah (Patrick) Newell, and Toby (Jovi) Hansen. Stella was preceded in death by her son, Aaron, and her husband, Douglas.  Stella is also remembered by her 13 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren.
    Stella was a loving mother, amazing grandmother, a trail blazer and a business icon.  She is now at rest and enjoying her reunion with Douglas and Aaron in Heaven.
    A memorial will be planned at a later time.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favorite charity in Stella’s memory.