A Memory of Alice Demske Hansen

On May 8, 2012, my dear cousin Alice Demske Hansen passed away at the age of 33 from an infection after having her third baby. 

Alice, I am so glad I was able to be reminded of your charming personality on two occasions before you passed away. In late March, Kyle and I came over for a dinner in your "really tiny" apartment. You really wanted to wait until the weather was warmer so we could eat outside, but we managed to squeeze in your little kitchen:). As soon as we entered, we saw your desktop was a picture of me from when I was in high school wearing my tennis uniform. This was definitely a hilarious gesture (this just shows the sense of humor she had). Also on your framed chalkboard (as seen in the group photo) read, "Welcome Gwyenne and Kyle!" Being the only family I had in Provo, I felt like it was a loving homecoming :). So for dinner we had salad, lasagna, and lemon meringue pie! Afterwards we started the "grand tour" of the apartment(if you don't know Alice, picture her saying this in a charmingly sarcastic tone). And before we even started, she assured us that we already seen half of the apartment (I just picture her saying this and it makes me smile). So then we caught up a little bit and then we were on our way. 

On the second occasion I saw you, it was just a week before you had your baby girl. My mom and sister were in town for the weekend so we stopped by to have some ice cream! You were pregnant as ever yet chipper as always! Edward and Charlie were running around and horse playing with Hilary while you gave my mom and sister the "grand tour!" Then of course we played with your very squishy pregnant belly. After catching up with you, your family, and Hilary we left your apartment not knowing it would be last time ever to see your beautiful face.

 

Hilary, Charlie, Alice, Edward, Me, Lyenne, Mommy

Alice, I will never forget your beautiful personality and the wonderful mother that you were. I will continue to think about you every day and follow your example. Our family will never be the same with out you and we all love you dearly. 

Charlie, Edward, and Frances, I all want you to know that your mother was the most talented, cheerful person on this planet. Her undeniable love is so strong for you all that it is felt by everyone who knew her. I hope that even though she isn't here physically, that you may feel her love through her wonderful spirit. All of you could not have had a better mother than she. As you grow older and learn about her I know you will be as proud of her as she was of you. I hope that when you are older you will read this and understand what an amazing person she was. I know you all will be as talented, smart, and witty as she was. I love you all with all my heart and may you always carry a piece of her as you go about your life here on this earth. Heavenly Father has a plan for you and your family to be reunited once again, and that you will all be together forever.