Kristy Ann Hanson, age 67, passed away from metastatic lung cancer on December 1, 2024, in Helena, Montana, with her daughter by her side. Born in Havre, Montana, on October 23, 1957, Kristy was the second of five children born to John “Jack” and Marjorie Hanson.
Kristy was a true “Montana girl” at heart. She had an innate love for the rugged beauty of nature, often immersing herself in the outdoors by hunting, fishing, seeking rattlesnakes, catching crawdads, swimming, or picking huckleberries. She cherished every adventure, embracing the experiences with enthusiasm and reverence. Her iconic grin in countless photos—featuring fish, geese, trophy bucks, and even snakes draped over her arm—embodied her love for life and the natural world. Kristy always gave thanks for the bounty she harvested from God’s creation, mindful of the sacrifices made by the creatures she pursued.
If you knew Kristy, you knew her love for food, especially BBQ ribs, BBQ brisket, crispy bacon (just the way her dad liked it), smoked cheese, and taco burgers from Taco John’s (with more cheese than taco meat). In the last decade, she perfected the art of smoking her own cheese, experimenting with different flavors of wood chips until she found the perfect blend. Kristy would smoke several blocks of cheese at once and enjoy her favorite savory snack daily. Anyone who spoke with her on the phone would inevitably hear the distinct sound of her sucking on a piece of smoked cheese.
Growing up, Kristy was a talented athlete, excelling in softball, tennis, and track at Havre High School, where she was a proud Blue Pony. She especially treasured her memories of playing tennis, and she would smile with pride when hearing about her grandson’s progress on the court.
Kristy married Dale Atkinson in 1977, and although they later divorced, their union brought two children into the world: Jedediah and Jennifer.
Kristy’s life was not without struggle. In 2008, she triumphed over addiction and embraced a new chapter in her life, deepening her relationship with Jesus. Kristy was not perfect—none of us are—but she always tried to be the best version of herself she could. Her heart was as vast as Montana’s skies, and her kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others were unmatched. It sounds cliche, but she would give her last dollar to a stranger in need or the shirt off her back, demonstrating a deep, sometimes self-sacrificial desire to help her neighbors.
In her final weeks, Kristy spoke often of the people she had loved throughout her life, sharing names from the past and expressing deep gratitude for the relationships that had shaped her. If your path crossed with Kristy at any point, know that you had an impact on her, and she carried you forever in her heart and soul.
Throughout various stages of her life, Kristy found solace and expression in poetry, and one of her works, written on December 3, 1991, titled *That Great Divide*, speaks to the journey of her soul:
“With my roller coaster set of emotions, with my pride just to be me.
Oh great Father of Heaven, you finally set me free.
Take me to that open door, that great big hunting ground,
The one that I’ve been looking for, the one I’ve never found.
As birds sing into the air and the sun shines on my face,
Warm winds blowing through my hair, I’ve finally found my place.
Where big bucks pose majestically, with lots and lots of pride,
I know somewhere far from this place, I’ll cross that great divide.
To all my friends and family, forever in my heart.
If I could paint my feelings, you’d be a work of art.
You helped me through my living and brought me through my pain,
And when the sun shines tomorrow, I’ll be with you once again.”
Kristy is survived by her mother, Marjorie Hanson; her siblings, Jeffrey Hanson, Kari (Rob) Lewis, Jennifer (Brent) Cotton, and Matthew Hanson; her children, Jedediah Atkinson and Jennifer (James) Adkins; her grandchildren, Jayden, Emily, and Levi; and many other relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.
An informal celebration of Kristy’s life will take place in the summer of 2025 and will no doubt include BBQ and smoked cheese.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has been carried out.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Kari Hanson Lewis says
You are missed, sweet sister. Thank you for inspiring me with your tremendous faith these past few years. May you be at peace in Heaven.
Atkinson, Kaye says
I remember the first day I met you, Dennis brought me to Holland Lake and I met the family. We had alot of fun together, and you will be missed greatly, I am proud to have been your sister in law and look forward to the days we’ll see each other again.
Dorothy S See says
We go way back to just out of high-school! I remember when we went to Essex and you met my brother, Dale. I remember all the years after when Jed and Jenni were born and we all lived together….so many fun memories, thankyou, Kristy, for all your love and friendship over the years. And we still get to love your children and thier families. You are missed. May you be held by Our Lord and Lady forever!
Robyn Morrison says
I remember Kari as one of the Pine Drive kids. My sincere condolences to Marj. The loss of a child is a source of deep grief. Sending peace and love to my old friend Jeff.
Paige Lewis says
Rest in peace Aunt Kristy! I love you and miss you.