River Falls, WI (trfnews.i234.me) – Family and friends are remembering Henrietta Mae “Hank” Ness as a loving mother, grandmother, and friend.
She died peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025, at age 87.
Her passing came at the Sycamore Memory Center in River Falls, Wisconsin.
Henrietta Mae “Hank” Ness, remembered for her warmth, humor, and service to others.
Early Life and Education
Henrietta was born July 24, 1938, in Iron Mountain, Michigan.
Her parents were Henry and Ann Goulette.
They taught her hard work, faith, and service to others.
She carried those lessons through her life.
Hank graduated from Iron Mountain High School in 1956.
She later moved to Duluth, Minnesota, to attend the College of Saint Scholastica.
There, she earned a degree in Social Work.
Classmates voted her “All College Woman” in 1960.
The school shares more about its mission on the Saint Scholastica website.
Marriage, Family, and Life in Thief River Falls
Henrietta married William “Bill” Ness on August 13, 1960.
Bill proposed on their third date.
Together, they settled in Thief River Falls, Minnesota.
They raised five children and built many lasting friendships.
The Ness family became active in their church and community.
Their home was a busy and welcoming place.
Hank encouraged creativity, music, and adventure.
She also pushed her children to care for others.
Residents of Thief River Falls remember those years with warmth.
Career of Service and Advocacy
Henrietta later earned a master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance.
She became director of the Occupational Development Center in Thief River Falls.
The agency supports adults with disabilities.
You can learn more about similar work through the U.S. Office of Disability Employment Policy.
Co-workers recall her calm presence and strong support for clients.
She treated every person with respect and patience.
Her efforts helped many people find purpose and work.
That legacy will continue in the lives she touched.
Hudson Years and Life Along the St. Croix
In 2002, Hank and Bill moved to Hudson, Wisconsin.
Their home overlooked the St. Croix River.
It quickly became a favorite gathering place for family and friends.
There were meals on the deck, card games, and long talks.
Neighbors knew Hank for her gap-toothed smile and quick humor.
She had a rare talent for making strangers feel like friends.
Visitors often left feeling seen, heard, and valued.
Facing Alzheimer’s With Grace
In later years, Alzheimer’s disease slowly took Hank’s memories.
Even so, her kind spirit stayed.
Staff members at the Sycamore Memory Center described her as gentle and sweet.
Information on Alzheimer’s support is available from the Alzheimer’s Association.
St. Croix Hospice also walked with the family near the end.
Their caregivers helped keep Hank comfortable and at peace.
More about hospice services can be found on the St. Croix Hospice website.
Family, Survivors, and Gratitude
Henrietta was preceded in death by her husband, William. her parents, Henry and Ann Goulette; her sister, Arlene Nolan; and her grandson, Ryan Mattison.
She is survived by sisters Doreen Meade and Maria Smith.
Her children are Gregory (Karyn) Ness, Teresa (James) Mattison, Jon Ness,
Jeffrey (Naomi) Ness and Rachel (Scott) Berger.
She also leaves 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
They remember her love, humor, and steady support.
The Ness family thanks the staff at the Sycamore Memory Center.
They say the center made Hank part of its own community.
They also thank St. Croix Hospice for the kind care during her final days.
Service and Livestream Details
Visitation will be held from 10–11 a.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
It will take place at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1500 Vine Street, Hudson, Wisconsin.
A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m.
A light lunch will be served at noon.
Details about the parish can be found on the Saint Patrick’s Church website.
For those who cannot attend, the service will be live-streamed.
The video will appear on her obituary page at O’Connell Funeral Homes.
That site can be reached at oconnellfuneralhomes.com.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
Sympathy and prayers 🙏❤️🙏