Lee (nee Marchet) Hannig passed away peacefully on January 27, 2021, at the age of 93. Lee was the beloved wife of the late Norman G. Hannig, who passed away in March 2015. Lee will be greatly missed by her daughter Sharon Parker (partner Jim Klawitter), son Norm J. (wife Mary), grandson Geoff Parker (wife Lauren), and sister Clara Beeler. She was preceded in death by her sister Albina Mouish.
Lee was born in Standard City, Illinois, the daughter of two Italian immigrants, Albina and James Marchet. The family later settled in Staunton, Illinois. As the youngest of three girls and growing up during the Great Depression with parents who spoke little English, her early life, like many others of that era, was not easy. In her early teens, Lee worked as an usher at the Staunton Theatre and later became a dental hygienist for a local dentist.
Lee met Norman Hannig, also a Staunton resident, when he returned from his tour of duty in the Navy at the end of WWII. Norman was a railroad man, and his job with the Wabash Railroad took him to Chicago, Illinois. Lee married Norman and moved to Chicago in November 1948. The couple remained in Chicago until 1965 when Norman was transferred to St. Louis.
In addition to her role as a wife and mother, Lee had several jobs outside of the home, including packaging for Buddig Beef Company and Universal Match Company, and in later years, in sales in the dress departments of Stix Baer & Fuller and Famous Barr. Her top priority, however, was always her family, and she was a loving and devoted mother. Beyond that, Lee enjoyed walking her dog, ceramics and other crafts, and also water aerobics.
Lee and Norman established close ties and friendships with many in the St. Louis area, as well as Sun City West, Arizona, where they had a vacation home. They became residents of Cape Albeon Retirement Village in Valley Park (St. Louis), Missouri in February 2009, and over the years, developed numerous friendships among the staff and other Cape Albeon residents. In recent years, Lee became particularly close with her caregivers who, thanks to their care and devotion, gave her many more happy years with loved ones and friends.
Services for Lee will begin with visitation on Monday, February 8, 2021, 9:00 am, at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Church, 4900 Ringer Rd, St. Louis, Missouri, followed by Mass at 9:30 am. Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, 2900 Sheridan Rd, St. Louis, Missouri. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (Greater Missouri Chapter), Kenrick Theological Seminary, or charity of your choice.
A Kutis South County Chapel Service
Although I never met them I know how much they both loved the visits from their children. Vicente and I send our deepest sincere condolences.
Sharon that was a beautiful obituary for your sweet Mom. So glad I knew her. She was so sweet. You have my deepest sympathy. I will have a mass read for her at St Johns that you & I can attend.
I am so very sorry to hear the news of Mrs. Hannig’s passing. She and Mr. Hannig lived across the street from us for years. (In St. Louis). My parents were very close to them both. They will be dearly missed. May they both RIP. Sending prayers to her family. The neighbor who purchased their home still has the “Hannig’s Hut” sign in his garage! Every time I see it, it puts a smile on my face!