June 28, 1942- January 8, 2020
It is with great sadness but also with peaceful hearts, that the family of Noreen Pederson (Hauser) announces her passing on the morning of January 8, 2020 at the age of 77 years.
Noreen leaves behind to cherish her memory her loving husband and her prince, Pat Thompson; daughters, Susan Bertolin (Emanuel) and Annette Koski (Mick); stepdaughters, Cheryl (Jamie) and Heather (Anthony) Thompson as well as grandchildren: Chiara, Matteo, Joe (Johanna), Jack, Adelle and Huxley. Noreen was blessed to have the support of two sisters, Jean Hamilton (Lorne) and Ferne Pederson (Larry) as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents, Nord and Ellen; sister, Estelene and granddaughter, Michelle.
Noreen was a teacher in every sense of the word, both at home and at work. She was lucky enough to enjoy a career that was also her passion. Over a teaching career of thirty-three years (the last 26 with the St. Albert Catholic School Board) she had the opportunity to touch many young lives. She was truly a professional and cared deeply about her students. Years after her retirement, she would still be approached by former students who would share their special memories of their time as her students.
At home, there was always a lesson to be shared as well. Whether it was a recipe, a gardening tip, a social grace, an observation or simply the “right” way to fold towels – she never missed the opportunity to help us be the best we could be.
Her grandchildren meant the world to her. She had a unique, special relationship with each of them and made them feel they were capable of anything and everything, because Grandma believed in them. We know that they will tell “Grandma stories” to their children and grandchildren. Her guidance will resonate for generations.
There are times in our lives when we can impact change by working harder, longer or smarter and then there are times when we are faced with circumstances beyond our control. Noreen accepted her diagnosis of brain cancer with grace and dignity, with little fear for herself but rather what it would do to her family. She never failed to thank her caregivers for their help. When her words left her, she would show her appreciation with a smile and often a wink of her bright blue eyes.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the support that came in so many forms - messages, flowers, food, visits, errands, home care – all of it meant so very much. A very special thank you to the remarkable team at Foyer Lacombe. Their compassion and expertise are unparalleled. We are profoundly grateful for their care.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to St. Albert Sturgeon Hospice Association (SASHA). Donations can be made to SASHA, PO Box 65105, Mission Hill Plaza, St. Albert, AB T8N 5Y3 or online at sasha-cares.com
Noreen’s Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 8, 2020 at Connelly-McKinley, St. Albert Funeral Home, 9 Muir Drive, St. Albert, AB.
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com.
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458-2222
