TERESA ELIZABETH HEHN
(née WHITE)
March 8, 1948-July31, 2023
It is with deep sadness that we announce Teresa Elizabeth Hehn has passed away peacefully at Broadmead Lodge at 8:40 a.m., Monday, July 31, 2023. She will be mourned by her devoted husband, Robert, step-children Chris (Lynne) and Stacy (Per) as well as her brother John (Alison), nephew Adam (Charmaine), niece Ainslie (Luke), sister-in-law Reta Blanchard, grand-nieces and nephews, step-grandchildren and many friends, colleagues and students. Predeceased by her parents Jack and Kathleen White (née Marshall).
Teresa was born and grew up in Victoria, attending Willows Elementary and Oak Bay Secondary Schools before going on to earn a degree in Education at The University of Victoria. She was an outstanding student, winning many awards at each institution. Upon graduation she began her teaching career in Victoria, working at Blanchard, Quadra (you may remember the cat themes that she painted and placed in the windows facing Quadra Street), Doncaster, Sir James Douglas and Shoreline Schools. Teresa was an outstanding teacher: creative, innovative, fun-loving yet with high standards. She inspired her students to work hard, reach for and achieve lofty goals and learn while having fun. She was respected by all members of her school communities. At each school she saw the “big picture” when working with students, parents and colleagues, always having the best interests of the whole school community front of mind.
As a youth and young adult Teresa was a champion Highland Dancer, winning competitions in B.C., Washington, Oregon and California; and one memorable months’ long trip to Scotland. Teresa loved to sew, garden, cook, entertain, travel, dance and laugh. Her love of photography, art and stylish clothing were other passions. She was the ultimate hostess and organized many memorable dinners and parties. Teresa was also a tenacious negotiator when shopping.
Teresa was a victim of Alzheimer’s disease and The Long Goodbye has come to an end. The disease stole a brilliant mind, a vibrant personality, a loving companionship and many joyful retirement years. Robert cared for her at home of five years before she went into care. Teresa was a resident at Broadmead Lodge for seven years. The care she received there was exemplary. Special thanks to the activity directors, care aides, LPNs and doctors in the Magnolia Lodge. They were especially caring of her and family in the last weeks before Teresa’s passing.
The family gratefully declines flowers. If you wish, donations in Teresa’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or Broadmead Lodge.
Deeply loved and held in our hearts always.
A Celebration of Life will be organized for a time in the Fall.
Condolence messages may be made through victoriasimplycremations.com.
I was very fortunate to have Mrs. Hehn as my teacher for grades 5 and 6 at Doncaster. She was a wonderful person and a phenomenal teacher, always questioning us, pushing us, and getting us to try new things. She was funny and firm but fair and we all loved her unique style and fashion. Kids in her class were also treated to a “marble jar party” every once in a while – she’d fill a jar with a couple of marbles when we were well-behaved and once it was full we’d get an afternoon to play games and have snacks.
She always made me feel seen, and created opportunities for me to do new things. I have never forgotten that, and my 10 and 11 year old self adored her for doing that for me.
I have thought of her fondly over the past (many) years and am very sorry to hear of her passing. My deep condolences go to the Hehn family for losing such a bright spark.
Janna, thank you so much for your kind thoughts and remembrances of Teresa (Mrs. Hehn). I still have her marble jar and will have it at the celebration of life. What a special feeling that you have of being seen. It was an exceptional skill/quality that she had as a teacher. Her celebration of life will be on September 23 (2:00) at the University Club. Please share the date with any other students from her days at Doncaster.
Dear Rob, and family, Teresa was an amazing, accomplished, and beautiful woman. I was honoured to work as a teacher-on-call in her magical classroom at Doncaster School. She brought out the best in her students, and enriched their lives immeasurably. I remember feeling so welcomed by both of you in your home at staff gatherings. My heart goes out to you, Rob. With my deepest sympathy, Ruth.
Ruth: Thank you for sharing your wonderful memories of times with Teresa. You are right; there was so many magical elements to her time with students. I am cherishing the wonderful adventures that she and I shared. She is deeply missed but I am taking comfort that she is finally at peace.
Rob
My condolence to Robert who was so devoted to Teresa. She was so arty and had a great laugh .
May she text in peace
Ida: Thanks for your wishes. I, too, will miss her easy laugh and that wonderful smile. I am taking some comfort that Teresa is at peace now.
Rob
Rob we are so sorry to read of the passing of Teresa. Life passes very quickly. Remember all the ups and downs of your life with Teresa and continue on with your life in fond memory of her. Neil and Vicki
Neil and Vicki: Thanks so much for your kind thoughts. I have fond memories of our time together on the court and at McKenzie School. I am holding close to my heart the wonderful times that Teresa and I shared.
Rob
Dear Rob: It is with sadness that we learned of Teresa’s passing. Your commitment to Teresa over the years was exemplary, and we are sure that care was appreciated by Teresa despite not being able to communicate that. We remember Teresa as a most gracious and entertaining hostess, enjoying fun times with many people. You were truly blessed by her presence.
Seona and John Stephen.
John and Seona: Thanks so much for your thoughts and warm memories of times with Teressa. I, too, am holding in my heart all the best times she and I had together.
Rob