Obituary of Sue McHanson

Sue McHanson 1931-2016 Sue McHanson (nee: Chan), a remarkable and quick-witted lady, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 9th at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon. Sue was born in Taishan China on Jan. 28, 1931. She met the love of her life, Leo, when he travelled to China from Leask, Sask. They married in China but Leo had to return home quickly because his father was ill. At the age of 19, Sue journeyed to Canada to join her new husband. Being totally alone and immersed in a new culture and country took a great deal of courage, but Sue rose to the challenge enduring the harsh winters, learning the language and successfully running the town’s hardware store with Leo. They were married for 66 years and raised three children. Sue, who was very smart and exceeded at math, enjoyed playing cards, golfing, curling and travelling, but dim sum with family followed by a trip to the casino was her favourite outing. On their many travels, Sue and Leo, always made new friends. Although at times she appeared to be quiet, once you got to know her well, you soon learned that she had a great sense of humour, was quick-witted and strong-willed. Her warm smile immediately made people feel comfortable. Sue was the most caring and thoughtful person – always concerned about the well-being of others before herself. Even when she was not well and in pain, she would never complain and was always looking out for others. Sue enriched the lives of everyone she knew. She was truly one of a kind. Memories of her compassion and humour are left with her three children, nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren: son Robert (Jo-Anne) McHanson and granddaughters Shannon (Sean), Sheri (Jamey), Christine (Nico) and Danielle (Brendan); daughter Janet (Avram) Trifa and grandchildren Geordie (Roanne) and Janelle; daughter Roberta (Ilie) Irinici and grandchildren Steven (Jancey), Angelina (Vincent) and Gabriel. Great grandchildren: Kian, Lucian, Syn, Seneca, Harrison, Juliette, Mathieu, Aurelia and Tashi. She also leaves one brother in New York, numerous in-laws and nieces and nephews. Sue was predeceased by her husband Leo McHanson, her parents Gook Hing Chan and Xian Chan, her children Peggy and Scott and two sisters and four brothers who lived in New York. A memorial service was held on Sat. Aug. 13, 2016 at 1 p.m. at the Leask Senior Centre. A huge thank you to staff at Royal University Hospital for their outstanding care and compassion. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the charity of your choice or in the form of a blood donation to Canadian Blood Services. Family and friends wishing to send private online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home, Tammy Smart – Director (Shellbrook 306-747-2828).