March 28, 1946 - January 11, 2024
Ione Evangeline Agrimson Hanson, Born March 28, 1946, Dickinson, North Dakota; died on January 11, 2024.
Ione is survived by husband, Mark S.; children, Aaron (Emily Svien), Alyssa, Rachel (Troy) Brown, Ezra, Isaac and Elizabeth (Alyssa Schwitzer); grandchildren Sam, Olivia, Naomi, Kingston, Danielle, Sophia, Remi and Selah; sister, Renae (Steve) Halverson; sister-in-law, Mary (Chris) Trodahl; uncle Rev. Raynard Huglen; nieces, nephews and cousins.
Preceded in death by parents, Rev. J. Elmo and Cordelia Agrimson, brother Robb Agrimson and sister-in-law Joanne Negstad.
Ione often described herself as "a woman of the Dakota prairies." Ione is being remembered for her dignity, grace, wisdom, strength, hospitality; for her love of music and for her lifelong commitment to the well being of children. The mystery and beauty of life were woven into Ione's whole being. She embraced a deep connection to nature and would share its wonder with others through her gardening.
Ione graduated from Augsburg University (BA) and Hunter College of Social Work (MSW). Her vocation as a social worker focused on children including serving as Director of Social Work for Children's Medical Center - Minneapolis and St. Paul. As a person of faith Ione was involved in the Lutheran Church in varied contexts. She embraced the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with people throughout the world while traveling with Mark when he served as ELCA Presiding Bishop and President of the Lutheran World Federation.
Diagnosed in 2010 with memory loss, Ione and her family did not let memory loss define Ione's personhood or diminish her dignity. From March 2020 until her death Ione lived in, and was lovingly cared for, by the Emerald Crest community in Burnsville. Prior to that she was an active participant in the Open circle day program in Hopkins. During the last weeks of Ione's life the team from Brighton Hospice tended to Ione with tenderness and compassion.
The funeral service will be live-streamed through Central Lutheran's website at www.centralmpls.org
Memorials suggested to Augsburg University, The Foundation at Children's Minnesota, ELCA World Hunger or Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1800 Glenwood Ave N., Mpls, MN 55405
Visitation
Saturday, February 17, 2024
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Central Lutheran Church
333 South 12th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Memorial Service
Saturday, February 17, 2024
11:00 AM
Central Lutheran Church
333 South 12th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Blessings to you, Mark and family of Ione.
My wife Kristie Hennig and I are in Mexico City, but we saw the announcement of Ione’s death in the Strib online. We accompany you and your family in spirit during this time of grief. May God bless your memory of Ione.
Ralph Baumgartner
My prayers are with you and your family, Mark. May the God who kept and sustained Ione in life keep and hold you and your family.
God’s peace.
Ione was a grade school classmate of mine in Tioga. We were good friends and spent time together even though I lived on a farm and she lived by the church in town. My condolences to her family at this time. She fought the good fight and I know she was welcomed home with loving arms.
My prayers and deepest sympathy, Mark and your family.
Dear Mark,
I just heard about Ione, and wanted to let you know we’re wrapping our arms of prayer around you and your family. Lean into God during these difficult days. And remember, she’s just in the next room.
Paul and Karen Schreck
My heart is sad, thinking about my dear cousin, Ione who has left this world. I looked up to her throughout the years & enjoyed so much, the times when our two families would get together. I admired her sweet, calm spirit. Mark, you and your family will be remembered in my prayers . I am sorry that you have had to say goodbye to your beloved wife, mother & grandmother. Love you guys! Cousin, Sheli
Dear Mark and family,
Creighton and I were saddened to hear of Ione’s passing. We regret that we were unable to attend her memorial service, but we know it was beautiful and affirming because Ione inspired those qualities. May the days ahead bring all of you peace. May your memories bring you smiles, not sadness.
Yours very truly,
Hollis and Creighton Fricek
Mark and family
Linda and I are very sad to hear this news. Our condolences to your and your family in the passing of Ione. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Jerry and Linda Peterson
I’m so glad Augsburg published this obituary for Ione. I’ve followed your journey through these last years and am amazed at the dignity you fiercely kept for Ione. What a huge commitment throughout your lives together. She sounds like a remarkable woman with an amazing spouse and so many children, their spouses, and grandchildren. Wishing all of you great comfort.
Our prayers continue to be with Mark and family. We celebrate with so many others as we remember all the lives enriched by Iones splendid gifts. We thank God for both of you. Flip & JeanFormo
Mark & beloved family,
I saw this obituary as I was searching for another one, and I am so sorry to hear this news. She was so kind, and I am grateful to have met her once or twice. May God’s love surround you and your whole family as you mourn dear Ione.
May God’s peace be in your hearts as you release her to heaven. May you know God’s power & peace in meaningful ways.
our love & every blessing, Jim & Mary Kaye Ashley
Mark & Family,
I remember Ione fondly from our early days at Prince of Glory. She was so friendly, kind and wise. I am so sorry for your loss. I pray for comfort for you. I know you will miss her. Kitty Bell
Deepest condolences to Ione’s family and friends. May the love and care of family and friends bring healing. May the sure knowledge of the Creator’s deep love for us and the promise of the resurrection give you strength to see that love never dies but is only transformed into greater love. Ione is still with you now and forever. Lifting you up in our prayers. Pr.s Christine and Gregory Holler-Dinsmore
I have thought of Ione and her family so often since first meeting her in 2018 at Open Circle in Hopkins. Her warm spirit has left a lasting impact on me, and will continue to. She touched the lives of so many. I am so grateful to Ione and to her devoted partner Mark for the impact they’ve made on my life.