Mary Katharine Hansen

Hansen, Mary Katharine 71 May 01, 1940 May 29, 2011 Mary Kay died unexpectedly of a pulmonary embolism. She was the only child of John and Blanche Knox of Iowa City. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Iowa in 1962. That same year she married Thomas Hansen. They moved to Ann Arbor, Mich., where Mary Kay earned a master's degree in mathematics from the University of Michigan. She subsequently taught mathematics at Eastern Michigan University and Reed College. She and Tom relocated permanently to Portland in 1974. Mary Kay's family was very important to her. She recently wrote that her proudest personal achievement was, "raising her delightful and successful daughters." She also adored being "Grammy." Mary Kay had many friends, talents and interests. She was treasurer of her investment club and was a longtime member of her book club and music group. She was an excellent seamstress and knitter and enjoyed her get-togethers with her Stitch & Bitch group. She made sweaters, socks and baby blankets for friends and family. She was also a member of the Tigard Knitting Guild, Women's Architecture League and Multnomah Athletic Club. Mary Kay liked to play and listen to chamber music and played duplicate bridge in various groups. Most days started with a cup of coffee and the New York Times crossword puzzle, which she always finished. Her favorite place besides her home and garden was the beach, where she spent many wonderful days with friends and family over the years. Preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Katie; Mary Kay is survived by her husband, Tom; daughters, Julie (Tom) and Karen (Seth); and grandchildren, Mason, Gavin and Thea. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 12, 2011, at the Reed College chapel. Remembrances may be made to the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, Chamber Music Northwest or a charity of choice.