Martha Mae Roffler Hanson, 93

Martha Mae (Roffler) Hanson was born to John and Anita (Strozzi) Roffler, on June 1, 1933, at the family ranch house at Pipestone, Montana. She passed away peacefully at The Springs Assisted Living in Butte on September 23, 2026. Martha and her younger sister, Lorraine, enjoyed horseback riding at the ranch and in Whitetail Park. She graduated from Whitehall High School in 1951.

Through her active involvement in 4-H, she met the love of her life, Gene Hanson. They married on October 19, 1952, ranching in the Whitehall area where they raised three sons: Byron, Dean and John. The couple ranched until their retirement in 1989, raising Hereford and Angus cattle, Suffolk sheep, and horses. Martha loved her sheep and enjoyed trailing cattle with family and friends to summer pasture.She was described by a friend as "a very efficient ranch wife."

Martha was an active 4-H leader, sharing her expertise in sewing, needlework, gardening, and raising club lambs. She loved attending the activities of her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids and was an avid fan of their rodeos, 4-H shows, ball games, theatrical plays, and musical activities. She delivered activity boxes to fourth grade classes in several area schools for the Ag in Montana Schools program.For several years, she was the "happy baker" at the local grocery store. In their retirement, she and Gene enjoyed traveling and cruises. She volunteered at the Jefferson Valley Museum and was an avid pinochle player. Her gorgeous yard and flower beds were the envy of her many friends. She enjoyed watching NFL Football and MLB baseball throughout her years, as well as the MSU Bobcats and Montana Grizzlies. She often enjoyed bantering with her grandkids and placing small wagers on Cat/Griz games.

Being an "independent soul," she lived at her home south of Whitehall until the summer of 2026; she then moved to The Springs of Butte, where she connected with many friends, enjoyed caring for flowers in the beautiful yard and greenhouse, and played cards and bingo. Her family is so grateful for the care and compassion she received while living at The Springs.

She is survived by her sons Byron (Rene), Dean (Roselle), and John (Kelly), eight grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and her sister, Lorraine Decker. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Gene, and brother-in-law, Bob Decker.

A celebration of life for Martha will be held on Friday, October 2, at 11:00 at K & L Mortuary in Whitehall, followed by burial at Whitehall Cemetery and a light luncheon.

Memorials may be made to the Jefferson Valley Museum in Whitehall or to a charity of the donor's choice.