Catherine Marie Hansen Mokena Death Obituary: In Loving Memory Of Catherine Marie

It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we share the passing of Catherine “Kate” Hansen, 73, of Mokena, who left this world on March 19, 2026. In true fashion, she arrived right on time for this final journey—after having just gotten her hair done the day before. A fitting touch for someone who lived life on her own terms, always with determination, humor, and an unyielding spirit.

Kate was born on May 11, 1952, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, to Emmet and Inez Costello. She spent her childhood in Chicago before making Mokena her home in 1975. From the moment she arrived in the community, she became a permanent and unforgettable fixture, known for her larger-than-life personality, her boundless energy, and her passion for living a full life.

Living with spina bifida, Kate’s resilience became an inspiration to all who knew her. She navigated the world on crutches before transitioning to a wheelchair, yet nothing slowed her down. In fact, anyone who knew Kate will attest to the fact that she moved faster, bolder, and with more purpose than most people on two feet. Her spirit and drive were unstoppable, and she carried that energy into everything she did.

For over 30 years, Kate served as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the State of Illinois, dedicating herself to helping others at the Tinley Park Mental Health Hospital. She didn’t just show up for work—she showed up for people. She believed in people, fought for people, and didn’t hesitate to bend a rule or two when necessary to help those in need. For Kate, doing what was right always took precedence over what was easy.

Kate’s faith was at the core of everything she did. A proud and devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church for over 50 years, she lived her faith with purpose and enthusiasm. She wasn’t someone who practiced her faith quietly; she was out there actively contributing to her community. Whether volunteering at the library, giving to those in need, or enlisting her children to help, Kate was always there when it mattered most. If there was a cause, a need, or a person struggling, Kate was the first to show up—likely running late, but without fail, showing up nonetheless.

As a single mother to Christopher, Megan, and Mark, and a second mom to many others, Kate’s greatest title in life was that of “Mom” and “Grandma.” She wore these roles with pride, love, and joy, cherishing every moment she had with her family. She was fiercely devoted to her children and grandchildren, and nothing made her happier than seeing them thrive.

Kate earned her Master’s degree at the age of 50, proving to everyone that timelines are simply suggestions, not rules. She wasn’t one to let age or conventional expectations stand in her way, and she showed all of us that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.

A lover of White Zinfandel and bad jokes (which she could never quite remember the punchlines to), Kate could often be found cruising the neighborhood in her wheelchair with a backpack full of wine and her treasured friend Judy in tow. She was known for being late, for laughing loudly, for helping endlessly, and for loving people exactly as they were. Kate defined inclusiveness before it was a buzzword, making sure that everyone knew they belonged.

Kate leaves behind her children, Christopher Hansen, Megan (Eric) Wagner, and Mark Hansen, as well as her grandchildren: Corissa (Brice) Haselhorst, Lucymay Hansen, Samantha Hansen, Grace Hansen, Thomas Hansen, Delia Wagner, Emma Wagner, and Sophie Wagner. She also leaves behind her great-grandson, Lincoln Haselhorst. Kate is survived by her siblings, Sean (Trish) Costello, Claire Costello, Sister Julie Harmon, Aunt Bernadette Berk, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who will forever remember her warmth and generosity.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Emmet and Inez Costello, and her brothers, Michael, Mark, and Timothy Costello.

In a bittersweet twist, we find comfort in knowing that Kate is now with all 10 of her toes—likely telling one of her famous jokes, blissfully forgetting the punchline—and most certainly, blissfully bra-free.

Visitation will be held on Friday at 3:00 PM at Vandenberg Funeral Home in Mokena, 19604 Wolf Rd, Mokena, IL 60448. Services will take place on Saturday at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Mokena, with burial and a lunch to follow to celebrate Kate’s wonderful life.

In true Kate fashion, we invite you to show up as you are—perhaps a little late if you must—and if you bring a glass of White Zinfandel, she would absolutely approve.

Kate’s legacy of love, laughter, and unshakable faith will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.