January 14, 1945 - March 1, 2022
Mavis' kitchen table always had room for one more person. She opened her home to everyone in her large family and circle of friends, making us all feel welcome and special. We visited often, stayed long and looked forward to being with her again.
Born on a farm near Lucky Lake, Saskatchewan, Mavis Merle Hanson was the daughter of Julia Hanson (nee Kallio) and Isaac Hanson. As the 13th of 15 Hanson children, she went to three schools: Lance Valley, Queen Elizabeth and Dinsmore High. After leaving home, Mavis resided in Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Dunblane, Outlook), Alberta (Peace River) and BC (Kamloops, Vernon, Houston, Salmon Arm).
Mavis was a talented seamstress and consummate organizer. She put her heart into the food which she grew, canned and cooked. She was an avid curler and golfer who loved a good card game and camping.
Outside the home, Mavis' work led to a career in municipal government. She studied evenings and holidays to complete IIMC courses through Camosun College and the University of Washington, and to obtain her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation. She was appointed to top leadership posts as the town Administrator of Houston, Chief Election Officer in Salmon Arm and Deputy Corporate Administrator in Spallumcheen.
Mavis passed away in Vernon and is survived by her husband of seven years, Russell Shortt and family; her three children - Monty Smith (Marian Sterzik), Mark Smith and Traci McGee (Michael); seven grandchildren - Jodi Buse, Samantha Sterzik-Smith, Maaike McCooey, Bobby Aarsen, Dustin Smith, Foster McGee and Truman McGee; four great grandchildren; four sisters - Elaine Hanson, Dorie Hanson, Gay Allison (Geoff Hancock), and Karen Sears (Brian); and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Mavis was predeceased by her parents and ten siblings - Florence, Lorayne, Herbert, Milford, Ray, Melvin, Vivienne, Arlene, Twila and Lyle.
We thank the care providers at the Polson Special Care unit for the compassion and care given to Mavis. At a small, private gathering, Mavis will be laid to rest in Fort Langley, BC, next to her sister Vivienne. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to a charity of your choice.
Mavis, your chair by the big kitchen table is empty. We know you're not up frying another serving of pancakes, eggs and bacon, and yet, we still feel full from the praises, smiles, laughter and memories that you gave so freely while you were with us. Rest easy mom, nana, sister, friend - our dear Mavis! There'll never be another like you. We love you.