Hanson, Mary Gilchrist

HANSON – Mary Gilchrist Hanson passed away peacefully at the age of 87, surrounded by her family, on November 15, 2014 in Medicine Hat, Alberta. She was born in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan on March 28, 1927, a year and a half before her brother Bill Gilchrist. They were raised on the Q Ranch in southeastern Alberta.

After leaving the Q for education in Truro, Nova Scotia and Swift Current, Saskatchewan, she married and relocated to the U.S., where she pursued a degree in economics. In 1960 Mary returned with her four children to the long, blue vistas of the Cypress Hills she had always loved.

Subsequently she taught at Maple Creek Composite High School for 22 years. With her husband, Sidney Hanson,  she helped build and actively worked in all aspects of the Gap Creek ranch west of Maple Creek.  She rode her horse in last fall’s round up, at the age of 86. She was an artist, a rodeo fan, a world traveller, a horsewoman and good neighbour,  who was always stimulated by a good discussion over a cup of coffee.  She was the wise and supportive matriarch of a varied clan of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who benefited from her counsel and unconditional love.

Mary is survived by her husband, partner and best friend of 48 years, Sidney Hanson, her brother Bill Gilchrist (Helen Gilchrist) and her children: Jane Curry, Gil Curry (Michele), Clay Curry (Jean) and Debra Curry (Lisle Waterman) and their families.  

They and her many friends in the community will miss this great woman.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Get More Maple Creek News →