HJALMAR PEDERSEN-MJAANES Hjalmar was born in Kvalsund, Norway, three hundred and fifty miles north of the Arctic Circle on August 23, 1929. He grew up during the war when Norway was under German occupation, which meant he was separated from his family for long periods so that he could continue his schooling in the south. He graduated with a Masters degree in economics from the University of Oslo and came to Canada in the 1950s, where he worked for Massey Ferguson and later Domtar. While at Massey he also obtained an MBA from the University of Toronto.Life later brought him to New Brunswick, where he settled in St. Stephen with his wife, Gillian and his son and daughter, Haakon and Victoria. He loved to ski and swim. Each year he tried to swim a little later than the year before and once actually swam at Oak Bay until as late as October 16, with Gillian reluctantly accompanying him.Hjalmar never lost his love for his native Norway, but he had a great affection for St. Stephen and although a quiet and very private person he enjoyed talking to people, especially about the state of the economy and finances, also (if he could get them to listen!) about his other great interest, the Second World War! Viking sagas sometimes had a way of creeping in too.When he became ill and was finally diagnosed with ALS he was stoic about his worsening condition and never complained, only once admitting “This is so hard.” His family, now grown to include Evan Justason, Victoria’s husband, are grateful that he no longer has to suffer every day but they will miss him more than words can say. They also want to thank everyone for their great kindness and support. It is truly appreciated.Funeral service was held on Monday, April 21, 2008 at 2PM from the Christ Anglican Church, Prince William Street, St. Stephen, N.B. There was no visitation by request.In lieu of flowers remembrances to the ALS Society would be appreciated by the family.Funeral arrangements in care of The S.O. Mehan & Son Funeral Home Ltd., 23 Main Street, St. Stephen, N.B. Condolences may be sent online at mehanfuneralhome.ca
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