Mary Ann (Wirth) Hanson of Ames, Iowa, passed away on September 26, 2025, at the age of 74.

Born to Edward and Arlene Wirth, Mary Ann, along with her eight siblings, grew up on the Wirth family farm southwest of Story City. She graduated from Gilbert High School in 1969.

In 1970, Mary Ann met Tim Hanson on a blind date, and they married in 1971. With Tim's frequent travels, Mary Ann largely managed the responsibility of raising their five children: Matthew, Erica, Lesley, Elayna, and Maureen. Her dedication resulted in exceptional children, a testament to her efforts. The family resided in Roland for 23 years before moving to Crystal Lake, IL, Ames, IA, Charleston, SC, and most recently, back to Ames.

Mary Ann had a great love for travel, particularly ocean beaches like Isle of Palms, SC, and places known for shopping, such as Shanghai, the Caribbean, and Mexico. She often recounted how, as a child, she would play by a broken tile near the farm, imagining it was a vast body of water, a reflection of her lifelong affection for being near the water.

A dedicated member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Ames, Mary Ann will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her husband, Tim Hanson; her five children; nine grandchildren; eight siblings; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends who cherished her.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date.