It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Noreen Hanson, on March 20, 2023 at the age of 92.

Noreen was born in the small village of Emley, Yorkshire, England, on Sept 17, 1930 to Clifford and Elsie Armitage.

The youngest of three children, she was so proud of her older brothers when they served in the British Navy during WWII. Noreen lived alone with her father after her mother died in 1943.  Noreen hated evenings alone, while her father worked and  enemy planes flew overhead and dropped bombs. One morning she awoke to find a large piece of shrapnel on her front step. Through all the horrors of the war Noreen managed to find fun and joy with her close friends. The end of the war brought her brothers safely back home. Noreen's nephew, Paul Armitage says: "The wartime generation passes but we all have strong memories of how they met their struggles and made our lives better." Noreen had an incredible memory and lots of stories to tell.

After leaving school She trained as a psychiatric nurse and worked at Menston Psychiatric hospital.  On her first day there she met the man she would marry and love for the rest of her life. Noreen and Derek shared a loving marriage for 71 years, until he passed away in 2020.  They raised three children and in 1966 they brought their family over to Canada to have a chance at a better life. 

Noreen was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved unconditionally and was proud and protective of her family. She loved deeply, forgave easily, and gave generously to anyone in need. 

Noreen worked and worshipped at the Salvation Army  and Church of Christ through the years. She always put others needs ahead of her own, and would stand up for anyone who needed help. 

Noreen made wonderful meals, and the best Yorkshire pudding and English Trifle. She was humble and truly never thought she was much of a cook. Her family knew differently. Her home always sparkled, and her heart was so generous and filled with compassion. Noreen's door was always open, and everyone was greeted with a warm welcome.

Noreen leaves behind her loving daughters, Wendy Nero (Jerry) and Andrea Wallace (Randy), her dear grandchildren Sean Hanson (Laurie),Brittany Bastian (Dan), Noelle Hughes Meier (Ryan), Megan Johnston (Tyler), and Russell Wallace. Also, her many great-grandchildren: Angela, Tate, Bella, Hannah, Connor, Oliver, Carolin, and Donovan, and one great-great-grandson Levi. Right up to her last days her eyes would light up whenever a great-grandchild entered her room. They were All her babies!

She will be greatly missed by all who loved her. 

Heartfelt thanks to Marcella Klein for visiting Noreen in hospital and again on her last day with us.  Marcella's strong faith, and caring spirit made a difference in our mother's last days, and were a comfort for her daughters. 

Noreen's family extend a warm Thank You to the kindest, most caring staff who were there to help Noreen and her family through this difficult time. We could not have asked for better help than she received at West Highland Good Samaritans. Thank you so much!!

In lieu of a funeral , her family has planned a private gathering to celebrate Noreen's life and love.