Johanne Margrethe Sorensen
Nov. 27, 1930 to Feb. 9, 2012
Hanne went peacefully, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, in the caring hands of the people of Wexford Creek. She had a lifetime of struggle with severe migraines, yet remained brave in the face of this and found strength in her love of family and friends, particularly her grandchildren. Throughout her life many were drawn to her wisdom, her inner and outer beauty, and sense of empathy.
Hanne was born in Frederecia, Denmark, where she lived with her family until WWII, when soldiers took over her family home. At age twelve, she was separated from her brothers and sisters, and was sent to work on a farm where she learned to sew. After age sixteen, she worked in a shoe factory and a cigar factory. Sometime after WWII, Paul swept her off her feet, married her in 1950, and later took her to Canada, in 1951. She became a well known seamstress in Port Alberni. There she raised her family, with Paul, and enjoyed a lifetime of working, camping, and being with family and friends. In 1980, Hanne and Paul moved to Qualicum, where her love of gardening won her the Parksville/Qualicum Garden Contest for having the most beautiful garden in the area. She delighted in spending time with her grandchildren, teaching them crafts and reading books on Eagle Crest Beach. When it became difficult for her to continue gardening, Hanne and Paul moved to Nanaimo, in 2000, where she was happy being closer to her family.
She is survived by her husband Paul, sons Roy (Kathy) and Benny (Pauline), and grandchildren William, Eric, and Christopher.
Hanne’s life has ended in peace and in dignity. She will be remembered in so many ways, especially for her love and compassion. She truly was a wonderful wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and friend. She was a good soul and will be a good spirit. Goodbye Far Mor. We love you.
An afternoon tea will be held to celebrate her life at Roy and Kathy’s, on Saturday, March 03, from 2:00 to 5:00PM.