Monica Hanke

With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Monica Lynn Hanke on August 31, 2020 at her home in Park Haven, MDC at the age of 55 years.

Left to cherish Monica’s memory are her beloved parents Ken and Frances Hanke of Bowsman, MB, siblings Rhoda Hanke and Brad (Eliza) Hanke, all of Thompson, MB, and family members Macy, Jeffery, Mathew (Chelsea), Zaida, Monica, Jordan (Calli), Larissa, Arden, Tavarez, Jayce, Ava, Lucas, Kryslynn, Eriksson, Colby and Mike & Brenda Fayant, as well as numerous extended relatives and friends. Monica was predeceased by her sister Delisa Grace Hanke and great niece Lydia Viola Delisa Hanke.

Monica was born in Winnipeg, MB on September 29, 1964. Shortly after her birth, Monica was faced with many physical complications. She lived with her parents until the age of eight, this is when she started going to baseball and hockey games with her dad, and she continued to enjoy watching her brother and nephews play over the years. At the age of eight, Monica moved to the Manitoba Developmental Centre and made Park Haven her home for the remainder of her life. The staff and her friends at Park Haven became her other family. She developed many special relationships over the years and enjoyed all the activities, concerts, field trips and camping at Delta Beach. We certainly cannot forget her flirting with all the handsome men around her.

Monica was a bit of a show off. Whenever she learned a new skill like painting, communication board, or the art of mastering the swiping of phones and tablets she would proudly display it.

Monica loved life – and took great pride in her appearance. She loved getting her hair and nails done, dressing up and getting make up on. Despite her challenges, Monica persevered throughout her life with happiness, strength and bravery. She taught all those who had the pleasure of loving her patience and compassion.

Monica loved her family. She could not contain her excitement when she had visitors… her reaction made you feel so loved. She especially loved watching her nieces and nephews play and grow.

Monica is now reunited with her baby sister Delisa… no fighting girls.

A celebration of Monica’s life will be held at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, September 4, 2020.

The family wishes to extend their extreme gratitude and love to the Park Haven staff.

If friends so desire, donations in memory of Monica may be made Park Haven / Manitoba Developmental Centre c/o Park Haven, Box 1190, 840 3rd St. NE, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3C6.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com