Gladys Eva Hanson (Morton) passed away peacefully on June 2, 2020 at the age of 96. She is predeceased by her husband Frank who passed away last year in May and by her three brothers: Bill, Ken and Ron. She will be lovingly remembered by her son Frank (Kathy), her daughter Marilynn, her daughter Julie (Tim), sister-in-law Dorothy Duncan (Murray), grandchildren Trevor, Bobby, Tyler, Andrew, Ryan, Stephen, Aren and Kara and great-grandchildren Kassie, Kenzie, Grady, Mikey and Mason.
Gladys was a born and raised New Westminster girl. Her childhood was blessed and happy and she loved recounting her memories from those days of growing up in a busy household with three brothers. After graduating from high school, she began her working life as a stenographer at Essondale Hospital. She put her typing and shorthand skills to use there for six years. In 1948 she married Frank and they began their family life in the home that they had been building together in Victory Heights. They enjoyed life in this beautiful loving home for over 69 years and hosted countless family gatherings and celebrations through the decades.
Gladys will be remembered for her beautiful smile that came straight from her heart and for the friendly, helpful way she was with everyone. She had several close friends that she treasured. She was a devoted member of Knox Presbyterian Church for 65 years, developing lasting friendships and a faith that gave her strength and grace when life was trying. Gladys had taken dancing and piano lessons as a child. She left the tap shoes behind but the piano playing continued into her nineties. She learned to drive at the age of 38 and thoroughly enjoyed the independence it gave her until she was 93.
Gladys showed strength and determination throughout her life but was especially strong during the time when Frank needed the care provided by the George Derby Center. She moved into the nearby Derby Manor building and adjusted amazingly well. She visited Frank often and their 70th wedding anniversary was a happy and momentous occasion.
Gladys was the strong, loving heart of her family. Her life is a tribute to family values and the importance of being close to those you love. She will be sadly missed, and her memory cherished by all who knew her. A service will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made in honour of Gladys’ memory to:
Knox Presbyterian Church or
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
4180 Lougheed Highway Suite 502
Burnaby B.C. V5C 6A7