Laura Hansen/Whittle

Laura Jane Hansen, 50, lost her battle with depression Tuesday, March 27th, 2018 in her home.

Laura was born November 30, 1967 in Cedar Rapids, IA. She spent most of her growing years living on a small far in rural Fairfax, IA where she was surrounded by the animals she loved so much. She had cats, dogs, cows, chickens, pigs, and other farm animals but above all she loved her horses. This is a love she carried with her throughout her life.

She attended Cedar Rapids private parochial school through the 10th grade when she switched to Jefferson High School where she graduated in 1985. Upon graduation Laura was anxious to see the world. She joined the US Navy happily serving her country and the world from 1986 through 1991. Upon discharge she spent a month with her family then headed to the bright lights and warm temperatures of Las Vegas. Upon arrival, she was immediately hired by the Flamingo Hilton where she worked for 26 years. She met her future husband in Las Vegas who was ironically from Iowa as well, Kelly Dean Hansen. They were married in Cedar Rapids, IA, later divorced, but remained friends.

Many of Laura's co-workers and customers became lasting friends. One in particular was Gary Rentscher who was there for her throughout the years. Her co-workers she considered family. They were devastated by her passing.

Laura is survived by her parents Raymond and Linda (Barth) Whittle, her siblings Jeffrey (Donna) Whittle of Los Angeles, CA, Anna (Jim) Whittle Jeffries of Washington, IA, Mary Dickinson of Cedar Rapids, IA, nieces Sandy, Andrea, Valerie, Alycia, Catrina, great nieces Shyla and Meridea, great nephews Josh, Layden, Ethan, De Shawn, and very special friend James Manning. Preceded in death by her son Luke, grandparents Marcella and Floyd Barth, Al and Alice Whittle, and her brother Peter.