Mary Ellen Holman Hansen, 70, a former Baker City resident, died June 30, 2002, of cancer.
Mary was born on Oct. 6, 1931, at Baker City to Rosely Kirby and Amos Robinson. She was raised by her grandparents, Beatrice and “Buff” Baldock of Baker City. She has a surviving brother, Dennis E. Kirby of Clackamas.
In her early years in Baker City, Mary worked for the Red Cross as a swimming instructor and lifeguard for 18 years, teaching the children of the community to swim.
She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon at Eugene in 1953. She taught in secondary schools for 34 years, retiring from Castro Valley High School in 1987.
Mary then moved to Reno, Nev., and once settled, she immediately started serving the community. She served on these boards and commissions: Sun Valley Landowners Association, Sun Valley Citizens Advisory Board, Sun Valley General Improvement District, Regional Transportation Advisory Committee, Washoe County Parks Commission, Looking Fine in ’99 and cabinet member of the Sun Valley Teen Center.
Mary often was assisted in these efforts by her best friend, Shirley Gieck. Mary will be missed by all who loved her.
For her accumulated efforts, Mary was awarded the prestigious Jefferson Award and the Silver Star. Sun Valley citizens and children enjoy the fruits of her tireless dedication: Sun Valley Boulevard bike lane, Community Center, Teen Center, Beautification of Sun Valley Schools and Seventh Street Park
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, July 5, 2002
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor