Florence Katherine 'Katie' (Hansen) Payne

Florence Katherine (Hansen) Payne, 90, of Mason City, passed away on Saturday, March 31, 2012, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit. A private family graveside service will be at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery with Rev. Patti Aurand of the First Congregational United Church of Christ officiating. Katie was born on December 3, 1921, in Mason City, the daughter of William H. and Margaret Gertrude (Sweeney) Hansen. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Catholic School in 1940. Katie worked for the State Brand Creamery until joining the military in 1943. She served in the U.S. Marine Corps (WR) as a Staff Sargent during WWII and was honorably discharged in San Francisco, CA in 1945. Katie continued her education at Hamilton Business College – graduating in 1947. She then became employed by W.L. Patton Company. On November 4, 1948, Katie married Gene L. Payne in Mason City. She assisted her husband in running the family business - Payne Plumbing & Heating Co. Katie was first and foremost a devoted mother and housewife to her family. She enjoyed being a member of various organizations and donating her time to Meals on Wheels. Spending time with family and friends playing cards, games, or just conversation were some of her favorite things to do. Katie also had a love of travel, which meant summer trips to Chicago (to watch the Cubs!), family Christmas in Florida and taking off with her husband to discover many other parts of the world. Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 63 years: Gene Payne of Mason City; two children – her son: Thomas Payne and wife Melissa of Mason City, and daughter: Margaret Peters of Tampa, Florida; four grandchildren: Colton & Lexi Payne, and Jonathan & Nathan Peters; sister: Helen Rankin; extended family and many close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister: Gertrude Peterson, and brother: Bob Hansen. Memorials may be directed to the Katie Payne memorial fund, in care of the family.

Memorials may be directed to the Katie Payne memorial fund, in care of the family.

Service:
A private family graveside service will be at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery