Tim Hanna died suddenly of a rare illness called Clarkson’s Disease, on February 18th, 2012 in Victoria, BC. He was born on July 23rd, 1949 in Boston, MA.
Tim was predeceased by his father Herbert in 1996 and mother Edith in 2008. Tim is survived by his wife of 38 years, Sheila (nee Fox), sons, Brady and Kelsey (Erica), grandson, James, expectant grandchild due March 8th, siblings Michael (Amanda), Paul, David, Mary, Phillip, John (Pamela), and Anthony (Becky), as well as many extended family members and friends.
Tim grew up in Massachusetts. His wandering spirit brought him to BC in the early 1970s where he met Sheila. Together they made a life in BC exploring everywhere from the coast to the Rockies. They settled in Gibsons in 1985, where they raised their family and in 1999 moved to Victoria. Sailing with his family was one of Tim’s greatest pleasures. Tim’s first career as a teacher was followed by a longer one with BC Ferries where he earned the respect of his fellow mariners first as a seaman, then as an officer and Ship’s Master. Since retirement, Tim and Sheila explored the Maritimes, finding a second home in PEI where he frolicked on the beaches and tapped his toes to the music. He loved being Poppy to little James and excitedly anticipated the arrival of his second grandchild. Tim was a vibrant advocate for social justice and neighbourhood concerns. He had strong convictions, and was compassionate and gentle. His faith journey brought him to the Catholic Church in recent years, where he found great happiness and comfort. He will be sadly missed by all who knew his loving soul, sincere heart, and vibrant spirit.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Andrews Cathedral, located at Blanshard and View St., on Saturday February 25th, 2012 at 11:00am, with Fr. John Laszczyk officiating. Interment will be at Royal Oak Burial Park following Mass. Reception will be at Sequoia Gardens Memorial, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria (adjacent to cemetery) at 1:00pm.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Tim’s name to St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Victoria Hospital Foundation’s Adult Intensive Care Unit, or a social justice cause of your choice.
Condolences for the family may be offered below.

36 Responses
Sheila, Kelsey and Erica, Brady
I’am so sorry to hear about Tim my prayers and thoughts are with you in this difficult time,
Lots of Love Aunt Marg
Dear Sheila, Kelsey and Brady
Our prayers continue to be with you during such difficult times.
The picture of Tim was perfect – so natural.
Love and hugs to you all
Pat and Linnette
We are so extremely saddened by this sudden tradegy. We miss you Uncle Tim. We know you are looking down on us smiling and feeling all the love we have for you. You will be in our hearts forever.
Chantelle, Michael, Emma and Lil Carter
I loved Tim. Ma and I had such a great time visiting him and his family. You will always be my heart and prayers, Tim.
Much love, Yvonne
again.. Sheila.. Kelsey.. Erica.. Brady… please accept my condolences… Tim was a rare soul.. strong. independent.. caring.. compassionate… loving.. he will be sorely missed.
Paul
We are now reflecting on how much Tim’s friendship has meant to us. He was sincere, positive and inspirational. We will miss the lunches, the interesting conversations and many laughs. Tim’s spirit will always be with us, as we continue our friendship with Sheila. We will always remember our warm parting at 4 Corners, although we didn’t know at the time that it was good-bye. Tim made this world a better place.
” He will be sadly missed by all who knew his loving soul, sincere heart, and vibrant spirit.” So true!!! Tim was a remarkable man; thoughtful, kind, generous to people he knew and even people he didn’t know.
My sincere condolences to Sheila and all the family and friends! His capacity for loving was great: love for his wife, family, friends, and ALL life!
I knew him through the James Bay Neighbourhood Association, and the respect and admiration for Tim and his work in the community will remain.
Dear Sheila,
Please accept our most sincere condolences.
The news of Tim’s death has been a shock and brought sadness to us.
The sorrow you feel is tremendous.
Please call on those around you for any assistance.
I shall miss Tim greatly.
I valued his contributions and counsel.
Marg
Tim lived life large and we were blessed to know him. He wasn’t afraid to challenge your beliefs and share his own. He adored his family and talked non-stop about his grandson. It’s hard to believe that such a vibrant and intelligent soul is gone but we will never stop thinking fondly of him. We share with his family in their loss and offer our heartfelt condolences.
Fare thee well on your journey, Tim.
love, Gayle and Ron
I am so sorry to hear of Tim’s passing. If there is anything I can do to help please let me know.