Born in Vancouver BC to Henry Sofus and Johanna Christina Hansen, Mary is survived by her children Shawn (Mary-Lou), Kellie (Glen) and Erin (Art), grandchildren Natalie, Brendan, Sasha, Tara, Brodie and Connor as well as great grandchildren Mila, Steven and Andrew.
Mary spent many hours of her youth training as a ballerina. As a young woman she performed in several productions of Theatre Under the Stars in the late 1940’s to early 1950’s as well as other professional engagements around the country including a memorable appearance in the chorus backing Sammy Davis JR.
After marrying Thom Hatch, she worked for many years at the Royal Bank at Broadway and Commercial. Mary never lost her love of flamboyant clothes, jewellery and animals. She spent her final years at Normanna Care Home in Burnaby where she was known as “gregarious,” “outspoken” and “confident, with a wicked sense of humour.” The family is very grateful for the care and compassion she received at Normanna.
At the age of 88, CBC News covered Mary’s outing to a dance studio arranged by Normanna staff. The reporter wrote the following:
Mary Hatch holds a champagne glass as she rests her hand on a photo album full of memories from her dancing career. (Rafferty Baker/CBC) Hatch knows how to play the role of the star. In the limo she had dazzling nails, makeup, and a white fur coat. At just the right moment, she waved to the camera. "Oh, it was fun," she said. "Very special."
She was very special indeed ...
The show will go on.....