Hanus, Teresa Lynn

(nee)Riesen of Menomonee Falls,  Age 47. Born to this earthly world July 4, 1966. Found  Eternal peace Wednesday, April 16, 2014.  Beloved wife for 14 years of David J. Hanus, Jr.  Loving mother of Claire. Beloved daughter of Ernest and Diane Riesen.  Dear sister of Denise (Scott) Guetschow and Mark (Shawna) Riesen.  Dear daughter-in-law of David, Sr. (Patricia) Hanus and Angela (Robert) Van Hecke.  Further survived by her Maternal Grandmother Inez Noto, nieces, nephews, other relatives and family.  She was preceded in death by her Paternal grandparents, Ernest and Irene Riesen Sr. and her maternal grandfather, Carl Noto.

Teresa was diagnosed with ALS on September 15, 2012.  She lost her battle in presence of family at her home as she wished.  She fought the disease to her very last breath with strength and courage. She was an amazing woman and will be dearly missed by us all. One of her gifts was unconditional love.

Teresa grew up in Beloit, Wisconsin and graduated from Beloit Turner High School in 1984 and from the University of Wisconsin/Madison in 1989.  In earlier years, Teresa was active in 4H and as a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church; she was also in the Disciples of Distinction traveling choir. 

Teresa started her career at JC Penney’s  in 1988.  Teresa was hired at Kohls Corporate Office  in February, 1998 in the Misses Division and lastly was a planner in the E-Commerce Division.  Teresa was a valued employee at Kohls for her knowledge, dignity and true friendship of so many people. 

Teresa always said her most favorite and most important privilege was being a Mom to Claire. Family was always a first priority in her life.  Teresa was a quiet, private person and at the same time had a wonderful sense of humor and was always ready for fun.  She always knew the perfect gift and put so much thought into giving.

Teresa enjoyed fishing with her Dad, sailing, attending Claire’s activities, water slides, reading, camping, lighthouses, carousels and being a firecracker.

During the time since her diagnosis, the family has been overwhelmed with outpouring of love and support.  Thank you to “Team Teresa” for the support last October for the “Walk to Defeat ALS”.  The family expresses special thanks to ALS Wisconsin Chapter, to dear friends Nancy, Lisa, Jenn, Chris and Missy and to the Hospice team Annette and Jackie.    Also special thanks to Pastor Chris and Pastor Margaret for their guidance.

Visitation Tuesday, April 22 from 4:00pm until the time of Service at 6:00pm at ST. MATTHEW’S EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1615  Wauwatosa Avenue, Wauwatosa.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the ALS Association-Wisconsin Chapter, 3333 N. Mayfair Road, Suite #213, Wauwatosa, WI 53222, to Heartland Hospice,  1233 N. Mayfair Road, Suite 100, Milwaukee WI 53226 or to St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church.

 A private burial will be held at a later date by immediate family.