Obituaries
Obituary: Carla Ranz
Carla was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose gentle spirit and caring heart touched all who knew her.
Obituary published and funeral arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.
Carla Ranz (nee Hanson), 75, of Lillington, North Carolina, passed away on May 12, 2026 at Cape Fear Valley Hospital in Fayetteville. Carla was born on January 29, 1951, in Morris, IL to the late Darlene Danielson Hanson and Willis J. Hanson.
Carla was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose gentle spirit and caring heart touched all who knew her. She shared a loving marriage with her husband, Michael A. Ranz, and together they built a family rooted in love, encouragement, and cherished traditions.
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Carla treasured her role as “Gram” and deeply loved spending time with Caroline and Henry. She was an avid knitter who lovingly created sweaters, Christmas stockings, and handmade gifts for her family throughout the years. Carla enjoyed reading, crafting, and baking, especially during the Christmas season, which brought her immense joy. Her kringla baking became a treasured family tradition and one of the many ways she expressed love to those around her. Music also held a special place in Carla’s heart. She enjoyed playing the piano and took great pride in teaching both of her grandchildren how to play. A woman of deep faith, Carla spent time reading her Bible daily and nurturing her walk with Christ, which remained an important foundation throughout her life. She was a devoted fan of the Chicago White Sox and faithfully cheered for her team over the years. When her children were growing up, she was actively involved in their activities and passions, always supporting and encouraging them in every stage of life.
Carla is survived by her husband, Michael A. Ranz of Lillington, NC; daughter, Kelsey (Adam) Swartz of Angier, NC; son, Jeremy Ranz of Henderson, NV; beloved grandchildren, Caroline and Henry Swartz; sister, Sandy (Doug) Schmidt of Morris, IL; brothers, Dan (Linda) Hanson of Morris, IL, and Jeff Hanson of Morris, IL; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.
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In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Wanda Clements; and brother, Bill Hanson.
Memorial contributions may be made in Carla’s memory to the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation PO Box 87526, Fayetteville, NC 28304.
A Memorial Gathering for Carla Ranz will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 1206 W. Route6 at Deerpath Dr., Morris, IL, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m.Pastor Steve Larson will be officiating.
For more information please call 815-942-5040 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
