Hello! My name is Hanna Klimmek. It’s an honor to be selected as a “Face of Big Lake!” This project is incredible! Since April of 2022, I have served the wonderful City of Big Lake as its City Administrator. Prior to that, and since November of 2015, I was the Community Development Director / EDA Executive Director. I have really enjoyed representing the city, marketing the city, and watching it grow. There are so many great things happening that everyone can benefit from!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband, Russ, and I are raising three boys; Carson – 13, Maxton – 11, and Theo – 9. We have a very loud house and wouldn’t have it any other way! We also have two dogs; Brandy and Tilly.
Q: How long have you lived and/or worked in Big Lake?
I have worked in Big Lake for the past 7+ years.
Q: Tell us about your current, past, or future career.
I began my career in Community Development in January of 2005, which was right after I graduated from St. Cloud State University with a degree in Mass Communications. Yep, I just fell into it. So, after 17 years in Community Development, I was promoted into City Administration. I really enjoy serving the City of Big Lake and working with all of the amazingly talented people we have on our team!
Q: Have you ever had a nickname? What is it and why were you given it?
My nickname is actually the name that I have always answered to. Everyone gets a little confused when they see the name, “Johanna Klimmek.”
Q: What is your favorite TV Show, Movie, Book? (Please list as many as you’d like!)
Russ and I enjoy watching shows after the kids are in bed. Some of our favorites are “The Office,” “Parks & Recreation,” “Breaking Bad,” “Longmire,” etc. Most recently, we’ve been watching “Alone.” I just joined a book club now that my boys will actually let me sit down to read a book. I have many favorites and enjoy all genres! I don’t really remember the last time I watched an entire movie.
Q: If you could only eat one food/meal and have one beverage for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Steak with a side of mushrooms, sweet potato, and broccoli. I do enjoy wine but if it has to be only one beverage for the rest of my life, I’ll have to settle for flavored water.
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes?
Planning for and going on family vacations is definitely my favorite! Other hobbies include working out, watching my boys in football/basketball/lacrosse/archery, etc., sitting by our campfire, and walking the dogs.
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
I want to go on a European River Cruise.
Q: What would you buy/do if you won the lottery?
Russ and I would go on a European River Cruise. I would also invest as well as give to charitable organizations.
Q: What has been a challenge you have had to overcome? (Life, School, Work, etc.)
Thus far, above the normal challenges in life, I would say the most significant was losing my Dad 7 years ago and caring for my Mom afterwards.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
To change my attitude about doing laundry and constant picking up. I’ll miss all of it one day, I’m sure.
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
My husband, Russ. He’s my best friend, he has the biggest heart, and he’s the best Dad. I admire his love for coaching and the time he puts into volunteering.
Q: What is something even your family and friends may not know about you?
I’m pretty much an open book so I don’t think I have an answer for this question.
Q: What is your proudest accomplishment?
My boys are my proudest accomplishment by far but finishing two marathons is right up there!
Q: What are a few of your favorite businesses / restaurants in Big Lake?
All of them!
Q: What is one of your favorite things about Big Lake?
The lakes! I grew up on a lake in Northwestern Wisconsin so I’m very much drawn to water. In the summer, I try to get out of the office and go for a walk to Lakeside Park. It’s a very peaceful way to spend some time on a beautiful day!
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Big Lake?
Get out and enjoy all of the activities going on. We have such a great Farmers Market and Music in the Park series just to name a few!
Q: Who is an interesting person in our community that you’ve met and deserves to be included in The Faces of Big Lake project?
Any city staff member!
