Betty J. (Hanson) Du Charme, 72, died Saturday, June 25, 2011, at Mayo Clinic Health Systems in Eau Claire, following complications from a fall at her home.\r\nBetty was born January 15, 1939, in Eau Claire, to Norman and Mildred (Miller) Ranes. She attended school in Eau Claire and later traveled to the Philippine Islands, where she married John Hanson, while he was serving in the Coast Guard. Her son, Mike, was born there and she loved telling stories of her life in the Philippines. She returned to Eau Claire where her daughter, Debbie, was born. Betty and John later divorced. Betty lived in Eau Claire, where many recognized her as the "blonde meter-maid". She loved her years with the Eau Claire Police Department and referred to them as her closest friends. Betty later worked at Land O' Lakes, Marten Transport, and T.J. Maxx and made friends everywhere she went. Betty loved people and she always loved to "work with the public".\r\nIn 1989, she married Dean Du Charme. They lived in Oconomowoc until his tragic death in automobile accident in February, 1991.\r\nFor years Betty lived right where she wanted to be, in the middle of all the "action" on Clairemont Avenue. After a severe heart attack in 2008, her son, Mike, became her devoted companion and gave her the greatest loving care. Betty was also a member of First Lutheran Church in Eau Claire. \r\nBetty is survived by her son, Mike Hanson, and her daughter, Debbie (Mark) Mathews, both of Eau Claire; her grandchildren, David, Nicholas, and Courtney Fischer; a sister, Dorothy (Ed) Heinle of Rockford, IL; a brother, Jack (Mary) Ranes of Chippewa Falls; and many nieces, nephews and loving friends. \r\nBetty was preceded in death by her parents, Norm and Mildred Ranes.\r\nBetty was especially proud of her children and had great pride and joy for her grandchildren. She was their biggest fan. Betty had many wonderful friends and will be sadly missed by her family and all who knew her. Betty chose to be an organ donor so that others may have a chance at life. \r\nFuneral Services will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 30, 2011, at First Lutheran Church, 1005 Oxford Ave. in Eau Claire, with Pastor Scott Miller officiating. Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 29, 2011, at Lenmark Gomsrud Linn Funeral Home, 814 First Ave. in Eau Claire, and one hour prior to services on Thursday at the church. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Eau Claire.
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