June 10, 1927 – July 16, 2017
It is with heartfelt sorrow that the family announces at the age of 90, the peaceful passing of Terrence (Terry) Hanna with family at his bedside at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.
Terry was predeceased by his parents and two older
brothers, Maurice and Brian.
Survived by his wife of 66 years, Emily (nee Bobyn); son, Shawn (Murielle); daughters, Kathleen and Patricia; six grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and brother, Kenneth (Marilyn) and 4 nieces, and 3 nephews. Dad loved life and felt blessed to live so long. He was thrilled when many family members celebrated his 90th birthday with him recently.
Terry was born in Vancouver where he resided until 1967. For 47 years he lived on False Narrows, Gabriola Island. Terry was very proud of his family roots which extended to Alert Bay, his mother being one of many direct descendants of Okaui Kahoomana (George Kamano) who was recruited in the Sandwich Islands by the Hudson Bay Company to man the trading post at Fort Rupert in 1854. Komano Island in the Queen Charlotte/ Johnstone Strait Region of the Central Coast of British Columbia was named after George Kamano.
Over the years, Terry went from towing logs on a tugboat in the war years to salesman for various companies. Terry was a business owner, bus driver, log salvager on Gabriola Island and had lots of stories to regale one and all with. After his retirement, Terry and Emily enjoyed travelling across Canada and the USA. Terrence was very involved in the community representing Gabriola as a trustee for the Islands Trust (1976- 1978) ushering in the first Community Plan for the Island. He also served as President of the Gabriola Island Ratepayers Association.
Terry was an excellent story teller and had a talent for captivating his audiences with his love of history. He was set in his ways being endearing in one moment and driving us mad in another. Dad was an adventurer including Emily and his young family on many road and boat trips. In later years his children and grandchildren have many fond memories of the waterfront property on Gabriola Island. Invitations were always open to both immediate and extended family members. We have amazing memories of countless family get-togethers bearing great food, great company, great laughs, great bonfires and great love for one another. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge of the sea with his children and his grandchildren. He took immense pleasure in teaching all of us how to be safe on the ocean. Dad believed their haven on Gabriola was a true blessing in life. He was extremely grateful for the peace, pleasure and tranquility that their home on beach provided them for so many wonderful years.
A celebration of life will be held in
September for family and close friends.
Condolences may be left at firstmemorialnanaimo.com