Julie Renee Hansen, 47, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, following a long illness.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd). A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, also at the funeral home.

Julie Renee Collins was born on May 27, 1979, in Sioux City, Iowa. She graduated from West High School and went on to attend Iowa State University, where she earned a degree in childhood education. She moved to the Des Moines area to pursue her passion for teaching and made it her home for 18 years, including the last 12 years in Ankeny.

For more than 18 years, Julie taught early childhood education in the Des Moines Public Schools district—a career she was deeply passionate about. She cared for her students with her whole heart, always striving to help them learn, grow, and feel valued and special.

Above all else, Julie was a mother. She was, in the truest sense, born for the role. The happiness and well-being of her children were always her greatest priority. She loved taking Sam, Kate, James, and Lily to new places, encouraging them to explore the outdoors, experience the world around them, and pursue every new interest that sparked their curiosity.

Julie was also a devoted wife. She and her husband, Scott, were partners for 26 years, including 18 years as husband and wife. Scott was, without question, her closest friend and lifelong companion.

Beyond her immediate family, Julie was a thoughtful, kind friend to many and a loving, generous aunt to her nieces and nephews. In her free time, she found great joy in gardening and spending time with family and friends. Parties and holidays planned by Julie were something to look forward to and to be remembered. She was also a hot air balloon enthusiast and enjoyed quoting movies with her sister and anyone who would partake. She tracked every storm leaving family to remember her advising them to be “weather aware”.

Throughout her illness, Julie faced each day with remarkable strength and grace. Her positive spirit never wavered. Even during the most difficult moments, she chose hope and gratitude, inspiring everyone around her with her courage, determination, and love of life.

Julie is survived by her husband, Scott Hansen; their children, Sam (14), Kate (9), James (9), and Lily (6); her mother, Judy (Pat) McAndrews; sisters, Rhonda (Tom) Shults and Ranee Collins; father-in-law, Calvin Hansen; brothers-in-law, Mark (Shari) Hansen, Brian Hansen, Joe Hansen (Laura Wonderling), and sister-in-law, Ann Hansen (Tom Patterson); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved her dearly.

Her love, kindness, strength, and devotion to her family and students will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

With deep gratitude, the family wishes to thank Meredith Hunt for her exceptional kindness, care, and support during this difficult time. Meredith has proven to be a true friend to Julie, ensuring that her wishes were carried out with great care, respect, and love. Her presence has been a true blessing to the family.

Julie requested in advance: No flowers, please.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions can be sent to P.O. Box 909, Ankeny, IA 50021 to help support Julie’s children.