Obituary of ANN HOCKEN

ANN CATHERINE HOCKEN (nee Kasyanyk) June 6, 1922 – August 29, 2012 Peacefully, with her family by her side, Ann passed away on August 29, 2012 at the age of 90 years at the Seven Oaks hospital. She was predeceased by her husband Jim and sisters Mary, Lena and her brother John. Ann was born in Kamsack, Saskatchewan and moved to Winnipeg in her late teens to start a new life for herself. She married the love of her life, Jim Hocken in 1949 and together they raised 3 daughters. Ann and Jim lived together for many years in the West Kildonan area of Winnipeg and, in later years, Ann resided at the Carriage House North apartments, making many lasting friendships. Ann and Jim enjoyed their winter vacations in Mexico, Florida and cruises in the Caribbean. They continued to travel after Jim retired as District Chief of the Winnipeg Fire Department. Ann was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Ann’s wonderful spirit, generosity and enduring optimism were an inspiration to those who knew her well. She lived her life putting everyone else’s needs before her own and maintained a positive outlook in the face of any challenge. She was young at heart and always ready for an adventure. She had a passion for playing cards, travelling and anything that enabled her desire to socialize. She loved being with people, had a great sense of humour and, as a result, had many good friends. She was a strong, independent woman and remained active throughout her life. In her younger years, she was an avid bowler, enjoyed her regular outings for lunch with her friends, numerous casino bus trips and bingo. Her summers were spent at the cottage in Gull Lake where she enjoyed many good times with friends and family. Ann was treasured by her family and will be forever missed by her daughters Kathy (Norman), Marnie and Carla (Ray). She will also be missed by her grandchildren Peter (Suzanne), Dallas, Reannah, Amanda (Paul) and Ray (Desiree) and great grand children Alex, Bailey and Myla. Thank you to all the friends and family who visited Mom in the hospital. Thank you to the staff on the 5th floor, Unit 4 and Unit 6 at the Seven Oaks hospital, especially the nurses who went above and beyond (you know who you are) and a very special thanks to Dr. Nolan Finlayson for his exemplary care and compassion. A celebration of Ann’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. A Reception will follow. Donations may be made in Ann’s memory to the Winnipeg Fire Fighters Burn Fund.