HANNAN, Linda Ingeborg Hannan

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Hannan (nee Gärdström) after a brief illness.  Born in Stockholm, Sweden in 1933, Linda spent her early years among a large family.  She was a second mother to her younger sister Anita, whom she watched over.  Linda developed many life-long friendships in Stockholm and later in life would visit with old friends each time she visited Sweden.

Linda moved to London, England at the age of 24 to work as an au pair and learn English.  There she met Terry at the Hammersmith Palais, and their romance blossomed. In 1957, Linda accompanied Terry to Toronto, where they began to build a new life and almost immediately integrated into the social fabric.  After a few years, they moved to Unionville, where they raised a family in a house with many beloved pets and a garden that they both loved working in.  Linda also lived for some time in Keswick, before eventually moving to Whitby.

Over the years, Linda and Terry attended some fabulous events in Toronto, from military balls to sailing regattas to a luncheon with Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.  Linda absolutely loved social gatherings, and if there was dancing involved, so much the better!

Linda held various jobs over her life, from caring for children to working in the offices of Breckles Insurance Brokers and the Toronto Telegram.  For decades, she stayed close to her roots and built many connections through membership in the Swedish Lutheran Church and other organizations in Toronto, including SWEA (where she enjoyed being part of the folk-dancing group) and the Scandinavian-Canadian bridge club.

Staying active was very important.  Linda learned to sail, captaining a ladies’ racing crew at National Yacht Club in Toronto.  She also became proficient at tennis, squash, and golf.  In later years, one could always find her out walking.  She loved to walk near Lake Simcoe and, in later years, down to Lake Ontario.  If weather didn’t permit, Linda resolutely walked the halls of her retirement home, becoming known round the building for her fitness and energy.

Another keen interest was travelling.  She delighted in venturing out into the world with friends and family.  Whether on sailing excursions or car trips, within Canada or abroad, Linda had an adventurous spirit. Linda will be remembered for her quiet strength and sweet soul, paired with an irrepressible zest for life.  With her loving, warm nature, she entered the hearts of many and will forever be missed.

Linda is survived by her children Katrina, Michael, and Annika; her grandchildren Ryan, Natasha, Victoria, and Tara; her good friends Terry and Meghan; and her sister Anita, as well as nieces and nephews in Sweden.

Special thanks to palliative nurse Jennifer Bennett, as well as to the nursing and personal-support staff at Viva Whitby Shores, for the care and compassion they showed Linda.

A funeral for Linda will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Low and Low Funeral Home, 1736 Reach Street, Port Perry, Ontario (905-985-7331).  Visitation will begin at 12 pm followed by a service at 1 pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, or any local humane society. For online condolences, please visit www.lowandlow.ca