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
Tim was a true professional as captain on board the ferries, and was always ready with a smile and a sparkle in his eyes. He had a unique way of viewing the world, which will be a much duller place without him.
Dave & Yvonne
We are so sorry for your loss. Our family has very fond memories of our visit with Tim and Sheila. Matt and Sean will never forget when Tim let them blow the horn on our Ferry ride. he was a wonderful host who made us all feel very special. We miss you Tim.
To Sheila, Brady, Kelsey and Erica,
Pam and I send our heartfelt love and prayers.
I looked up to Timmy as a role model in so many ways while I was growing up. I was always so proud and impressed by his independent nature. What I will most fondly remember is how he treated me with kindness and respect. I had and always will have a very special place in my heart for my brother. I love and miss him very much. Until we meet again. John
To Sheila, Brady, Kelsey and Erica,
I will deeply miss Tim. I can’t believe he is gone. Our family will never be the same. This loss leaves a big hole in all of our hearts. I send my love and prayers to all. Your brother, Phillip
To Sheila, Brady, Kelsey and Erica,
I looked up to Timmy as a role model in so many ways as I was growing up. I was always so proud and impressed by his independent nature. What I will most fondly remember, is how he treated me with loving kindness and respect. I always had and I always will have a special place in my heart for him. I love you Tim, miss you very much. Until I see you again. Your brother, John
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal,Tim will live in all our hearts and your family is in ours
Love Shaun,Mandy and Adenalexander
It was indeed a pleasue to work aboard ship with such a calm and professional mariner as Captain Tim Hanna. Tim’s constant smile and pleasant demeanor reflected on his crew. Tim always spoke fondly and proudly of his family and about the many happy voyages they enjoyed sailing the west coast in that beautiful sail boat. Tim was a wonderful shipmate and friend and he will be deeply missed. My sincere condolences to all his family.
Allan & Gillian Youbou BC
We are holding you all in our prayers – may God’s love and comfort embrace you as you grieve, remember and celebrate Tim’s life. We give God thanks for him and all that he brought to this world and for all that he meant to so many! Be gentle with yourselves – may you be surrounded by many wonderful memories.
love, Jen and Ian
Our hearts go out to you Sheila, Kelsey, Brady, Erica and Little James. Tim will always be in our thoughts and our hearts. With living so far away we feel that we only got to know Tim in the last 10 years with our trips out West and your trips out East. With knowing Tim we saw what a wonderful man he was and why you (Sheila) married him. Tim you will be missed by everyone who knew him. We were blessed in knowing Tim and family and will always have fond memories.
Love Peter and Gerry
Dear Sheila,
I am so sad to read about Tim’s sudden death. We spoke and saw you both after Mass last week, smiling and laughing. May God bless you in this deep sorrow. My prayers will be with you. Hugs Barb