In Loving Memory Of
Patsy Kay Hansen
It is with heavy hearts and much sadness that the family of Pat Hansen (nee Waknuk) announce the passing of their beloved wife, mother and Baba on Monday, December 28, 2020, in Grande Prairie, AB at the age of 80 years.
Pat was born on February 17, 1940, and was raised near Spirit River, AB. She was educated in a one-room schoolhouse in Ksituan before attending high school at Blueberry Mountain, AB. She went on to obtain a business diploma at Dawson Creek Secretarial College.
She worked various jobs throughout her life, including the Spirit River Hospital, where she met her husband of 61 years, Erick Hansen. Pat and Erick married and moved to Grande Prairie in 1959, where Pat continued to work at the Grande Prairie Hospital. After taking some time off to dedicate herself to being a stay-at-home mother to their two children, she once again returned to work outside of the home at the Court of Queens Bench at the courthouse. After a brief retirement in the mid-‘80s, Pat then returned to work at the Motor Vehicle Branch in Grande Prairie for several years before retiring and focusing on the true loves of her life.
Pat was an amazing cook and often proudly hosted dinner parties and large family gatherings. Pat was also accomplished in cross stitch and needlepoint, creating beautiful works of art that have pride of place in her family’s homes. Her gorgeous tea roses and gardening talents were second to none. Everything that Pat grew and lovingly attended to, flourished under her care.
First and foremost, Pat was a devoted family woman and mother. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Baba to her five granddaughters. She had a vivacious personality and an ever so teasing glint of mischief in her eye that always made people around her laugh or smile. She made friends everywhere she went, and her many coworkers and friends of her children loved spending time with her.
She leaves behind her husband of 61 years, Erick Hansen; her children Sherry Hansen-Smith (Guy Smith) of Edmonton and Doug (Debbie) Hansen of Sherwood Park, AB; grandchildren: Hannah Smith, Erika Smith, Rachael Hansen, Natalie Hansen and Caitlyn Hansen; and brother Tom Waknuk.
Pat was predeceased by her parents John and Dora Waknuk; and siblings: Helen Chaley, George Waknuk, and William (Bill) Waknuk.
The family wishes to thank the many healthcare professionals that they entrusted Pat to over the past two years. Special thanks to the staff at Prairie Lakes Hospice, who treated Pat and her family like gold with their compassion and care.
A private Funeral will take place at a later date when the family can honour Pat in a way that her loving and full life deserves.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation (710, 10123 99 St., Edmonton, AB, T5J 3H1) or to a charity of one’s choice in honour of Pat.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Patsy Kay Hansen February 17 1940 December 28 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Grande-Prairie, Province: Alberta