November 5, 1952 – June 14, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Dixie Gale Lee (Hansen) at the age of 72 years, after a short illness.  

Dixie is lovingly remembered by her husband of 54 years, Cecil of Onoway and daughter Marnie Lee of Edmonton. She is also survived by brothers: Lorne (Doris) Hansen and Andy Hansen.

Dixie was predeceased by her son Robert in 2002 and her parents Fred and Edith Hansen. 

Dixie was born in Nelson and spent most of her childhood in Edgewater, British Columbia, with parents Fred and Edith Hansen, and older brother Lorne and younger brother Andy. She was also particularly close to her paternal grandmother, Eslie, and Aunt Alice, who she spent a great deal of time with growing up.

She first met Cecil in 1970 in Outlook, Saskatchewan and they were married later that year on November 21 in Fernie, British Columbia. Their first child, Robert, was born in 1972, with daughter Marnie following in 1978. On November 21, 2024, Cecil and Dixie celebrated 54 years of marriage together.

Their married life began in Saskatchewan, but they lived in many places throughout Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia, including Sparwood, BC; Hinton, AB; Tumbler Ridge, BC; and lastly in Onoway, AB. Wherever Dixie lived, she quickly made friends, many of who she remained friends with throughout her life. She was always known to help out neighbours and get involved with various organizations, such as helping at her kid’s schools and groups, as well as getting involved in many quilting guilds. Dixie loved connecting with others, and especially liked being a storyteller, whether it was about her experiences, family and friends, or something she had learned, as an avid reader.

Dixie held various jobs throughout her life and had many skills and talents, such as when she learned to do nails in the 1980s. She was very skilled at multiple hobbies and crafts through the years, as well as being proficient at many do-it-yourself projects, before DIY became popular.

She was a talented sewist, who attended courses at NAIT in Edmonton to develop her skills further. Her greatest pastime, however, was quilting, a skill and legacy she passed down to her daughter. Dixie was a gifted and creative quilter, winning many awards and we are thankful for the gift of her many beautiful quilts and the sewing knowledge and wisdom that she has shared with many. Quilting also gave her many social connections, and she made many friends through quilting.

Her primary focus, however, has always been her family. After raising her children, she cared for her mom and dad, moving them in with her when they were in poor health. During this time her son, Rob, also became ill with a terminal brain tumor. During this difficult period, she demonstrated remarkable strength and grit, and despite her own grief, continued to look after those around her.

Dixie will be forever missed by her husband and daughter, along with her extended family and countless friends. We are grateful for the many years we had with Dixie and the love and caring she shared. We take comfort in knowing that after years of living in severe and chronic pain she is now at peace.

Dixie will be laid to rest in her beloved Columbia Valley, with a celebration of her life at the Edgewater cemetery at a later date.