Obituary of Maria Eriksen

Maria Eriksen, of Calgary, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2008 at the age of 69 years. After high school, Maria was educated as a nurse and received her RN from the Galt School of Nursing in Lethbridge. Soon after, she graduated from the University of Calgary with a BA. and a MA. in psychology. She began work as a psychologist which she did for the rest of her life. Along the way, she attained a PhD in psychology. Maria will be best remembered for her committed leadership regarding women’s issues from the 1970’s on. Later, this leadership was expanded to establish a micro loan fund for educated immigrants. For her efforts to change the “status quo” she received many awards and honours including an honorary doctorate from the U of C., the Governor General’s Persons Award, and the Order of Canada. Maria’s passion in life was the mountains, she spent time at her most favourite place, Lake O’Hara, for over thirty consecutive years. Maria is survived by her two brothers, Ivan (Jean) and Dennis (Lorraine); sister Myrtle (Alex); as well as her nieces and nephews. Maria was predeceased by her husband, Harold Hanen, in 2000. A Celebration of Maria’s life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Sunday, November 16, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made directly to the Maria K. Eriksen and Harold Hanen Fund at the Calgary Foundation (700, 999-8 Street S.W., Calgary, AB, T2R 1J5 www.thecalgaryfoundation.org Telephone: (403) 802-7700. In living memory of Maria Eriksen, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 Elbow Drive S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.