De Ann K. Fern

De Ann K Fern, aged 72 of Eau Claire, passed away unexpectedly on December 18, 2023 in her home. 

De Ann was born on February 24, 1951 in Spencer, Iowa to Glenn Wayne Hensley and Herma Louise (Zahren) Hensley. In 1959, the Hensley’s moved to Baldwin, Wisconsin to pursue their family farm.

De Ann attended school in the Baldwin-Woodville School District. There she was an active member of many school activities; playing flute in the band, participating in the Girls Athletic Association (GAA), school performances, and doing what she loved to do most, cheering for her favorite sports as a cheerleader.

After high school, De Ann attended the University of Wisconsin – Stout in Early Childhood Education for a few years before beginning a family of her own in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. De Ann was married and brought three sons into this world: Timothy, William, and Scott Fern.  They were her most prized possessions. Whether it was rushing to an ER for an accident-prone child, attending school concerts and sporting events, or just relaxing with each one of them,     De Ann was always there to support “her boys”.

Her love and commitment to her sons also continued with her community. She was an active member of her community through many organizations and fundraisers (Junior League of Eau Claire, Trinity Lutheran Church Altar Guild) as well as the owner of Designer Edition, an AVEDA Hair Salon and Day Spa for over a decade and a half, spreading joy, beauty and confidence throughout Eau Claire and to all whom she encountered.

De Ann will always be remembered for her cheerful energy, infectious smile, love for sports and her unwavering support, love and pride for her sons and grandchildren. She was a friend and “mother” to many, and for that she will be missed dearly.  De Ann is preceded in death by her father and mother Glen and Herma Hensley, Sister Connie Paulson, and brother Steven Hensley.

She is survived by her brother, Stan (Mary) Hensley; her three sons, Timothy (Kristi Burdick), William, and Scott (Rachelle Peterson); grandchildren Nicholas, Collin, Carson, Emilia and Jonathan; one great grandchild; along with cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for De Ann will take place at 11 am on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1314 E. Lexington Blvd., Eau Claire, WI 54701 with Pastor Tom Westcott officiating.  Memorial visitation will take place at the church on that day from 9 am until the time of service.  Inurnment will take place at a later date in the Silver Lake Cemetery, Lake Park, Iowa.   

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com. Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.  

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