LaVae Ann Bannon (Mehus)
January 25, 1951 - May 21, 2025

LaVae Ann Bannon, 74, passed away peacefully on May 21st in Brownsburg, Indiana, surrounded by those who loved her. Born January 25, 1951, in Mayville, North Dakota, she spent her early years in Hatton before growing up in Valley City, where she graduated with the class of 1969. She went on to attend Valley City State University.

In the spring of 1970, LaVae was crowned Miss Valley City and finished as runner-up in the Miss North Dakota pageant. While she was proud of those honors, they were just the beginning of a life marked by drive, grace, and fierce determination.

LaVae built a successful career in finance, holding senior roles at Whirlpool Finance, Select Comfort, and Cargill, where she served as a Director and Senior Credit Analyst. Her work ethic was unmatched, and her professional accomplishments were the result of relentless resilience and a sharp, strategic mind.

She married Daryl Hansen in 1971 and welcomed two sons, Brandon and Brooks. In 1983, she married Greg Bannon, and in 1989, they had a daughter, Kally. Her greatest role, though, was being a mother and grandmother-she brought strength, warmth, and humor into the lives of those around her.

LaVae had a deep, unwavering love for her family. She was tough, loyal, witty, and empowering. Her kids knew they were in trouble when they got "the look," and her grandkids knew they were safe in her arms. She loved to travel with family, play Skip-Bo around the table, bask in the sunshine, and tell stories-always with that sparkle of humor and life. She instilled strength and independence in everyone she met.

LaVae was an active member of the Lutheran Church, and her faith gave her quiet courage through life's ups and downs.

She is preceded in death by her husband Greg Bannon; her parents, Arthur and Loraine Mehus; and her foster siblings, Tommy Towler and Theresa Hopkinson.

She is survived by her children: Brandon Hansen (wife Megan), Brooks Hansen, and Kally Bannon. Her grandchildren: Drayden, Hailey, Addison, Harper, Dakota, and Hunter Hansen; LaVae Duke and Rylen Bannon; and a new granddaughter due in August 2025. She is also survived by her great-grandson, Kohen Hansen.

LaVae is also survived by her siblings: Larry Mehus, Gary Mehus (wife Carolyn), Gayle Mehus, Laurelle Mehus, and Jane Mehus, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

A private service will be held in Brownsburg, Indiana. A celebration of life will be held at the Dakota Pavilion, 933 12th St NE, Valley City, ND 58072, on August 15th from 11 AM to 2 PM. All who knew and loved LaVae are welcome to join in remembering her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in LaVae's memory to support research into Superficial Siderosis at ssra.livingwithss.com.

LaVae lived her life with purpose, humor, and a deep love for her family. Her legacy is one of strength, compassion, and unforgettable stories around the kitchen table. She will be deeply missed.