Susan Marie Hanken

Susan Marie Hanken, 66, of Bozeman, Montana, left this earth mid-morning on March 16, 2026, her spirit lifted away with the cranes into the heavens.

Susan was born and raised in Fremont, Nebraska, one of eight children, of Marie Beatrice (Schneberger) and Vernon Arnold Hanken. She was raised in the Catholic faith which helped shape her compassionate spirit and deep sense of service to others. She later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in French literature, carrying with her a lifelong appreciation for learning, culture, and beauty.

In her early years, Susan worked as a model with Wilhelmina, one of the world’s leading modeling and talent agencies. Though her path began in the spotlight, her true calling was found in caring for others. She devoted her life to serving those in need—working as a caregiver, advocating for battered women, and most recently supporting individuals through Job Service offices in Livingston, Billings, and Bozeman. Her work was not just a career, but a reflection of her generous heart and her quiet mission to uplift those around her.

Sue’s greatest joy and purpose in life was her family. She deeply cherished her children—Aline, Rose, and Jackson—and found immense happiness in her role as a grandmother to Willow and Finneas. The love she shared with them was boundless, and we know she will always be watching over from above.

She found beauty in life’s simple moments. Susan loved movies, going out to eat, reading, walking and hiking, and being in the mountains. Her laughter was warm and contagious, and her presence brought comfort, light, and connection to those around her.

Susan will be remembered for her fiery and giving spirit, her unwavering compassion, and the love she poured into every life she touched. She lived with grace, empathy, and a quiet strength that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marie and Vernon; her brother, Steve; and her granddaughter, Ourania.

She is survived by her children, Aline (Danny) Dupont of Billings, Rose Nott of Helena, and Jackson Nott of Bozeman; her beloved grandchildren, Willow and Finneas; her siblings, Randy of Chicago, Illinois, Lee of Omaha, Nebraska, Kevin of Iowa, Cindy of Fremont, Nebraska, Gary of Nebraska, and TJ of Iowa; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing that our mother is now dancing in the stars—reunited with her parents, her brother, her granddaughter, and those she loved who went before her. Her love remains with us, guiding and surrounding us, and she will forever live on in our hearts.

A memorial service will be held on March 27 at 1:00 PM at Dahl Funeral & Cremation Service in Bozeman. A celebration of life will be held in Nebraska in the summer of 2026.