Deborah Hanson

Deborah Hanson, 42, of Shawnee, passed away Tuesday, October 26, 2010, at the Kansas City Hospice House.

Deborah was born February 25, 1968, to Donald and Dee Pavelka in St. Louis, Missouri. Deborah graduated from Kirkwood High School in 1986. After graduation she attended Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, where she received two Bachelor's Degrees in Music and Music Education.

While at Trinity she met David Hanson. They were married December 28, 1991, in Kirkwood, Missouri. In 1991 Deborah attended the Manhattan School of Music to study opera. She left early to pursue a career in musical theatrical acting. As an actress she appeared as Luisa in the original New York production of "The Fantastiks", she also appeared in roles at the Kansas City Repertory Theater and the Actors Theater of Louisville.

Deborah moved to the Shawnee area in 1998, where she worked as a music teacher for the Monticello United Methodist Church Children's Center. Deborah was a member of the Monticello United Methodist Church, Actor's Equity, as well as being a 4-H Leader. Deborah was a former member of Job's Daughters.

Deborah is survived by her loving husband of 18 years, David Hanson; a daughter AJ, and a son, D Henry. Her parents, Donald and Dee Pavelka, and a sister Amy Studt, all of Kirkwood, Missouri. also survive her.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Monticello UMC; 23860 W. 75th St., Shawnee, KS 66227.

Visitation and Memorial Service

A Celebration of Deborah's life will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 30, 2010, at Monticello United Methodist Church in Shawnee. The family will greet friends from 10-10:30 a.m. at the church.