Joel A. Aanensen

Joel A. Aanensen, age 78, of Hancock, passed away April 30, 2026 at Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee.

Joel was born August 21, 1947 in Hinsdale, Illinois to Arthur and Mary Ann (Panek) Aanensen. On August 21, 1949 the family relocated to rural Plainfield. By the time Joel started school, two younger brothers, Dennis and Gary had joined the family.

The Aanensen family was very active in scouting while Joel was growing up and Joel attained the rank of Eagle Scout while in high school. Joel was also active on the football team and vocal music.

Upon high school graduation from Tri-County, Joel enrolled at Wisconsin State University in Stevens Point and majored in forestry. Following graduation from college, Joel enlisted in the United States Army and trained as a helicopter pilot. Following that training he spent a year in “beautiful southeast Asia” (Vietnam) being shot at. He was an active member of the Hancock United Church of Christ for many years.

Upon being honorably discharged, he did some traveling and then was employed by Omniflight Helicopters in Janesville. He married Kay at that time they welcomed their son Aaron and he traveled with Joel during many of his adventures with Omniflight.

Joel is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Kay Aanensen, Hancock; his two children, Aaron (Ilona Zsolnay) Aanensen and Nora (Clint) Moses; his grandchildren, Madison (Elijah) Ullom, Maris, Margaux and Miriam; his great-grandson, Willard Ullom; and brothers, Dennis and Gary Aanensen. Further survived by other relatives and friends. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Arthur and Mary Ann Aanensen.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 12:00 noon in the Stahl Funeral Home, Plainfield. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in the Hancock Cemetery.