Helen Hanson

Helen (Stohrin) Hanson, 76, of Florham Park, formerly of Millburn, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026.

Helen was born on July 11, 1949, in Berchtesgaden, Germany. At just nine months old, she traveled by boat to the United States with her parents, where she immediately made the newspaper for stealing her first American piece of food—a doughnut!

Helen lived in Manhattan and later moved to Astoria, New York, where she graduated from high school and attended secretarial school. She worked for Hawaiian Airlines and had an incredible job that allowed her to travel around the world. Fortunately, Helen was able to continue traveling around the world, embarking on many amazing adventures throughout her life.

Helen later married Donald and moved to Millburn, New Jersey, where she started her family. She eventually retired from an impactful 25-year career with the Millburn Township Public School system where she began as a secretary and held many additional positions thereafter.

Helen had many passions in life including gardening and arts and crafts. Her house and yard were always immaculate and ready to entertain or host a party, where she always insisted on doing all the cooking herself! She created Halloween costumes every year for her two daughters while they were growing up, as well as for the teachers at the elementary school where she worked. She loved to shop and had a wonderful eye for interior decorating, always keeping her home up to date with the latest styles. Helen even made chocolate lollipops and displays as a side job – her creativity touched the lives of many throughout the years.

Devoted mother of Laura Prizgar, her husband Wesley, and Melissa Hanson.  Proud grandmother of Victoria and Brianna Prizgar.  Loving daughter of Margaret Stohrin.  Dear sister of Katherine Palmisano and her husband Steve.  Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Helen was pre-deceased by her husband Donald Hanson. 

The memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 10th at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park from 4-7pm. 

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