Jody A. Hanson passed away peacefully at home on the west side of Madison on Sunday morning, May 30, 2010. She was born January 10, 1956 in Columbus, WI to Robert and Joan Link. Jody graduated Magna Cum Laude from Columbus High School in 1974 and the University of Oshkosh in 1979 with a Masters Degree in Fine Arts. Jody married John Hanson on July 16, 1983 at St. Jerome's Catholic Church. Over the years of their marriage and the raising of their daughter, Emily Hanson, they worked together, Jody taking the reins and John making sure she took enough time for joy and laughter. Jody worked throughout her life as a manager guiding and helping everyone around her. For the past thirteen years she worked as an advertising manager for Electronic Theatre Control. This was a job she loved and excelled at. Jody's favorite things outside of work were a good book, art, laughter, motorcycle trips with her husband and time spent with family. She was a deeply caring person with a quick wit and a big laugh. She was known for getting the job done and being the first
to offer assistance to someone in need.

Jody left behind many friends and family. She is survived by her husband, John; daughter, Emily; her mother Joan Link; her siblings who supported and loved her dearly, Robert (Mary) Link, Rae Marie (Bill) Dougan, Vicki (Scott) Erickson, Rex (Marion) Link, Cindy Link; her father and mother-in-law Tom and Rita Hanson; brother and sister–in-law Steve and Mary Lou Hanson and she is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

A Memorial Gathering to commemorate and celebrate this unique, caring, and giving mother, daughter, sister, wife, and friend who always surpassed any ordinary expectation or definition will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2010 starting at 8:30 a.m. at St. Jerome's Catholic Church, 1550 Farnham St. Columbus, WI 53925 with a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. with Father Tom Schmied presiding.

In lieu of flowers please make donations or volunteer time with your favorite charity to celebrate Jody's strength, determination and endless spirit of giving to those around her.

We would also like to acknowledge and thank all her co-workers at ETC that were like a second family to her and gave her so much support. We would also like to thank all the many friends and doctors that helped and supported Jody during her life and especially during her two year battle with cancer. With special thanks to Dr. Trainor, Dr. Khuntia, and Dr. Howard; the friends who offered her and her family support, Denise, Joe and Diane, Gary and Tammy, John M., and Father Tom Schmied.

Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services in Beaver Dam is honored to be serving the family.