It is with affection and deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Thérèse Hanley (née Bourdeau) at Ottawa’s Bearbrook Seniors Residence on the morning of January 7, 2026. She was 98.
Terri was born in the small town of Embrun in Ontario’s eastern townships. As one of 16 children born to Médard and Julia Bourdeau, her love of family, strength of character and courage to carve her own path were built upon the joys and lessons learned as a middle child of a large, vibrant and passionate family.
Terri’s upbringing and education through high school were also conditioned by the challenges of the Great Depression, family members called to war in Europe, and the struggles of economic life in a rural farming community.
Then, like many of her generation, she went west, as she would recount in her usual subtle humour. To Ottawa.
There she began her career in the public service, got married, and started raising her own family, eventually becoming a single, working mother of two young daughters, Linda and Peggy King.
But in the late 1960s, she once again responded to a call from the west.
It was from Robert (Bob) Hanley, a war veteran from Saskatchewan, widower, in his 50s, with five kids of his own.
And there began a great love story of nearly 50 years.
Terri and Bob were inseparable, always showing their commitment to love’s enduring presence. They actively enjoyed life’s adventures as much as its quiet moments, whether they were on the high seas during innumerable cruises with family and new friends, or just doing hobbies and crafts and chores.
During their long retirement together in Florida and later back to Ontario, Terri and Bob enjoyed golf, travelling, dinners, and many 4pm happy hours surrounded by friends, family, and neighbours.
But one keepsake Terri placed on a wall near every entrance of every home they started or moved to was a small wooden plaque with an inscription that defined all that she did in her long life: “Do everything with love.”
Thank you, Terri, for doing exactly that.
Terri is pre-deceased by her husband Bob, daughter Peggy, step-sons Philip and John, and most of her siblings. She is survived by her brother Gérard and sister Beatrice; daughter Linda, and step-children Mary Lynn (Bob) Cihak, Cathy (David) Harvey, and David; 10 grandchildren (Anne, Alysha, Michael, Andrea, John, Laura, Claire, Stephen, Carlotta and Filippo); and eight great-grandchildren (Caliana, Everett, Ava, Ella, Mira, Heidi, Alma and Brida).
Terri’s Memorial Service will be held in the Sacred Space at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Monday, January 26 at 11 a.m., followed by a reception. Interment will take place at 1 p.m. in the National Military Cemetery, located at Beechwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Terri's memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
Digital Guestbook
Lise and Gary Bourgeois
Tish Delorme
My condolences Linda. I know what it is to lose a mom. This is a very difficult time for you.
You are in my thoughts and prayers as you journey through this. Your mom is probably in a better place for her right now. She will always remain in your heart and you will have the memories of her to cherish often. Sending you hugs and positive energy to get through this
Bea Cleary
I am sorry for your loss Linda. Losing your Mum is a complex emotional experience and so heartbreaking. We send our condolences to you and the family,
Bea and Phil
Natalie Belovic
I'm so so sorry for this huge loss Linda. you had such a special relationship with your maman. As you know, i wont be able to attend in person but Rick will be there to give you a big hug on my behalf.
Our sincere condolences Linda, you are in our thoughts and prayers sweetie. It’s always so difficult to lose a Mom bless you in during this most difficult time. God bless you.