April 1, 1935 – March 22, 2013
Lois Jean Hannakan was born in the small Pennsylvania town of Portage, in coal mining country. An excellent student, she graduated early from high school and set out for big city adventures, landing a job in Washington, DC with the FBI.
Her career was derailed when she was swept off her feet by dashing naval serviceman Don Thompson. Within months, they had married and were soon stationed in Naples, Italy. A rapid succession of moves ensued, and the family grew: Lois was a devoted mother to their three children, often alone for months when Don was deployed in overseas combat. Lois was a skilled naval officer’s wife, always immaculately dressed, a fantastic cook who could throw together a party at a moment’s notice, and able quickly to create an elegant home wherever the family landed. As her children matured, she resumed her career, working in a variety of customer service jobs that spotlighted her work ethic and love of conversation. After almost fifty years of marriage, Lois was predeceased by Don in 2002.
She is survived by her children Linda Smither, Frank (Carrie Topliffe), and Russell (Robin); grandchildren Ryan (Chelsea Harder), Kimberly (fiancé Kolby Kember), Nicole, Austin & Kyla; great-grandson Charlie; and brother Ronald Hannakan. A funeral mass will be held at the Serra Chapel of the Santa Barbara Mission on Wednesday, April 3 at 2 pm. Funeral arrangements: McDermott-Crockett.
