Join us in celebrating the life of our beloved Hanan. Please share your stories and memories as they will provide us with great comfort.
We are planning virtual and in-person gatherings, and will share details here.
Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial.
OBITUARY
Hanan was the embodiment of her name: a generous, compassionate, and kind sun. To be in her company was to feel instantly welcome and at home. She was and will always be the heart of our family. When we think about the things we love about Hanan, we can't help but smile. She took every opportunity to laugh - she pranked our husbands when first meeting them, she never stopped competing with her whole heart in the 'kids' easter egg... see more
Hanan was the embodiment of her name: a generous, compassionate, and kind sun. To be in her company was to feel instantly welcome and at home. She was and will always be the heart of our family.
When we think about the things we love about Hanan, we can't help but smile. She took every opportunity to laugh - she pranked our husbands when first meeting them, she never stopped competing with her whole heart in the 'kids' easter egg hunts and when she played, she always played to win.
She has always been the life of the party - and everyone was invited. Whether you were an old friend or a stranger she made you feel at ease, like you've known her for years.
Hanan's joie de vivre was expressed amongst many hobbies. She was an avid yogi, weight lifter, walker, water-colour painter, card and backgammon player and a true force in the kitchen.
Wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, friend. She has left her mark on so many people and her loving memory lives on in our hearts and our stories, forever.
Please share your photos or memories or favorite stories with us.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a contribution to the IDRF, which supports the education of Syrian Refugees.
Hanan was such a sweet, loving lady. She has been in my thoughts a lot lately, along with Riwa, Rahaf & Nabil. My sincerest condolences for the loss of this wonderful woman. She was passionate and caring. I could always feel her love, and she was... moreHanan was such a sweet, loving lady. She has been in my thoughts a lot lately, along with Riwa, Rahaf & Nabil. My sincerest condolences for the loss of this wonderful woman. She was passionate and caring. I could always feel her love, and she was always very encouraging and supportive. I have early memories of Hanan from when I was 5 or 6 years old. All my memories of Hanan are of her smiling or laughing. She was a great friend of the family and she'll forever be missed dearly. Sending lots of love to her family. May she rest in peace. less
My sincere condolences over the loss of Hanan. I worked with Hanan for Kia image project for many years and had a chance to travel with her to visit the dealer in Newfoundland back in 2011. We managed to visit Gros Morne National Park before heading back... moreMy sincere condolences over the loss of Hanan. I worked with Hanan for Kia image project for many years and had a chance to travel with her to visit the dealer in Newfoundland back in 2011. We managed to visit Gros Morne National Park before heading back to Toronto and had a wonderful time together. I still clearly remember how much she loved driving around the park and our frequent stops to take in the scenic views. I wanted to share some of those beautiful photos of Hanan. less
Dearest Rahaf, my deepest condolences to you, Nabil, your sisters and all your family. It was a great pleasure to meet Hanan. I so enjoyed her fun loving, affable manner. It is a a testament to her vitality to see her kind, caring, selfless nature shine... moreDearest Rahaf, my deepest condolences to you, Nabil, your sisters and all your family. It was a great pleasure to meet Hanan. I so enjoyed her fun loving, affable manner. It is a a testament to her vitality to see her kind, caring, selfless nature shine through you. Loving thoughts and prayers, Antoinette Schatz less
Hanan was a dear friend to everyone of our family. Her loss is still a shock to us all and we are really saddened by her sudden departure. She will be sorely missed.
Our deepest condolences to the Harfoush family for their... moreOn behalf of the Rai family:
Hanan was a dear friend to everyone of our family. Her loss is still a shock to us all and we are really saddened by her sudden departure. She will be sorely missed.
Our deepest condolences to the Harfoush family for their loss. May her beautiful soul rest in peace. less
I was sadden to hear of Hanan's passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family at this difficult time. She was a friendly person with a kind heart and will be missed.
Winston Facey
I have very fond and happy memories of my time in Damascus and working with such a dedicated team of which Hanan and Nabil were part. To hear this very sad news at the passing of a colleague in these very uncertain times is even more distressing.
Jose... moreI have very fond and happy memories of my time in Damascus and working with such a dedicated team of which Hanan and Nabil were part. To hear this very sad news at the passing of a colleague in these very uncertain times is even more distressing.
Jose and I send all the Family our sincere condolences.
I am still waiting your daily calls !
I treasure all those memories of growing up with you and the secrets we would always share. The years past quickly and you are far away. You left so soon and took... moreOn behalf of Safa Shams:
My Little Sister Hanan,
I am still waiting your daily calls !
I treasure all those memories of growing up with you and the secrets we would always share. The years past quickly and you are far away. You left so soon and took my heart with you.
Rest In peace my soulmate.
Sending my deepest condolences to the beautiful Harfoush family. Mr Harfoush, Riwa, Rahaf & Rania my heart goes out to you during this time of mourning. May you take future comfort knowing Hanan, more than most, lived life to the fullest everyday... moreSending my deepest condolences to the beautiful Harfoush family. Mr Harfoush, Riwa, Rahaf & Rania my heart goes out to you during this time of mourning. May you take future comfort knowing Hanan, more than most, lived life to the fullest everyday & touched so many lives. She was a natural teacher of all things wonderful in the world. May we still learn from her not to take time for granted.
It feels like yesterday to me, but Thank you Hanan for generously accepting me into your home. I am forever appreciative & honoured to have had the opportunity to spend time with you.
Tanya less
I've had the deep pleasure of walking through life with Haneen's daughter Riwa. Years before I met Hanan for the first time in person, the specialness of her was always present. In Ri's words. In her stories about Hanan and the family growing up. Every... moreI've had the deep pleasure of walking through life with Haneen's daughter Riwa. Years before I met Hanan for the first time in person, the specialness of her was always present. In Ri's words. In her stories about Hanan and the family growing up. Every time they'd speak on the phone. Hanan carried a rich legend and I know her bond with her daughters was one of devotion, playfulness and deep care across oceans.
The first time I met Hanan was at Alex and Riwa's wedding in France. Her warmth was so familiar. Perfectly in tune with my expectations. There was a moment later on where the dance floor erupted into Arabic song. Hanan was at the centre of all of Alex and Riwa’s friends. Dancing in delight. An enormous smile. She was the life and soul of that moment. I remember her beaming and erupting with Habibi and wrapping her arms around us.
Later on, we found each other again at the corner of the dance floor. She grabbed my hand. Looked me in the eye said come. And pulled me back in to the middle of the dance floor. We danced together for hours. I will treasure that day.
Hanan, your legend lives on in your beautiful daughters.
My heart is broken for all of the Harfoush family. This sudden loss is so tragic. You are in my heart today and will be for all the years to come. less
I was shocked and very sad when I heard about Hanan. My thoughts are with her and her husband and beautiful children whom I know she loved so very much.
I didn’t know the meaning of the name Hanan – it’s perfect.
Hanan and I worked together on... moreI was shocked and very sad when I heard about Hanan. My thoughts are with her and her husband and beautiful children whom I know she loved so very much.
I didn’t know the meaning of the name Hanan – it’s perfect.
Hanan and I worked together on architectural projects and I want to share two brief stories (I have many) that make me smile and think of her generous smile and innate ability to make people she’s with join her in that expression:
Our office full of architects and designers who tend to drink cold coffee and draw to improve the built world all day long. Hanan would encourage food breaks and walks without fail each day but I wouldn’t always go ("I’m too busy" I’d say) and she’d say “but you have to eat!” When I or we all did it was enjoyed – many a time we’d end up at her family home sitting on the deck in the sun – so welcoming and restorative. Hanan in fact started a series of project team dinners and conversation by having us over with family which was good for the body and the soul – we ate well always!
The second instance arouse when Hanan learned of a side project I was doing - a house….my first. We discussed details and plans and the concepts behind the home but the human aspects from storage and objects found around a house – the human part and how we interact with it. Hanan talked about courtyard houses from back home with fountains but then specifically about a house (I believe family but I might be wrong) in Switzerland. I was intrigued and the next day Hanan brought drawings of the house for me to see – everything was done by hand down to the boxes on shelves in the basement to a special entry and approach via a tunnel! The uniqueness of the house was something and Hanan shared it with me and I will never forget that passion and genuine friendship she gave.
So very sorry to hear of Hanan's sudden passing. She was well liked and loved, I have many fond memories of her, working together at Mayhew. She was always a bright light and a beautiful soul. My deepest condolences to her entire family during this... moreSo very sorry to hear of Hanan's sudden passing. She was well liked and loved, I have many fond memories of her, working together at Mayhew. She was always a bright light and a beautiful soul. My deepest condolences to her entire family during this difficult time. We were all blessed for having known her.
Janet Steffan less
I am saddened and shocked for the loss of dearest Hanan, may she rest in peace and may God give the family the strength and patience during those tough times.
Jim and I were shocked and saddened to hear the news about Hanan. Our son Jesse, has been blessed to share his life with Hanan's daughter, Rahaf. I found Hanan to be a kind and generous person, gentle and loving. The bond between mother and daughter,... moreJim and I were shocked and saddened to hear the news about Hanan. Our son Jesse, has been blessed to share his life with Hanan's daughter, Rahaf. I found Hanan to be a kind and generous person, gentle and loving. The bond between mother and daughter, was touching, full of strength and respect. My condolences to her family, gone too soon and missed by many. less
Our deepest condolences for your great loss dear Nabil and the Harfoush family. In fact, it is a great loss to everyone knew Hanan. She was such a humble, loving and caring person. She was full of optimism and spreading joy everywhere she went. Our... moreOur deepest condolences for your great loss dear Nabil and the Harfoush family. In fact, it is a great loss to everyone knew Hanan. She was such a humble, loving and caring person. She was full of optimism and spreading joy everywhere she went. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you in this very difficult time.
May her pure soul rest in peace. She will be immensely missed.
I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Hanan through her amazing daughter, my sister-in-law, Rahaf. While I did not get to see Hanan often, I always knew her to be a woman of kindness and warmth, full of love for her husband, daughters and... moreI had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Hanan through her amazing daughter, my sister-in-law, Rahaf. While I did not get to see Hanan often, I always knew her to be a woman of kindness and warmth, full of love for her husband, daughters and grandsons.
I’m sure her loss is deeply felt by her family and friends, not just as it was so sudden and far too soon, but because of all that she was to all who knew her. Sending love, prayers and support to the Harfoush family. My deepest condolences.
What a beautiful soul, always smiling loving and caring for everyone, you always wanted to enjoy life music and dancing ...
We’ve known you for the last eight years when we met you in Toronto, we wish we’ve known you for longer ..Rest in peace dear... moreWhat a beautiful soul, always smiling loving and caring for everyone, you always wanted to enjoy life music and dancing ...
We’ve known you for the last eight years when we met you in Toronto, we wish we’ve known you for longer ..Rest in peace dear friend ♥️You’ll be missed..
Salam kabbara
Maye Mashnouk less
I worked with Hanan for 5 years and will never forget her bright eyes and big smile. She was a rock and always available to help in any way. I'm so sad to hear about her passing and wish her family much love in this difficult time. Karen V
Tant Hanan was one of a kind. Warm, kind, and sincere. I will always remember her smile that fills the room and makes you feel welcome and at ease. Gone far too soon and suddenly, she will be forever in our hearts, thoughts, and memories. My condolences... moreTant Hanan was one of a kind. Warm, kind, and sincere. I will always remember her smile that fills the room and makes you feel welcome and at ease. Gone far too soon and suddenly, she will be forever in our hearts, thoughts, and memories. My condolences to the Harfoush family and friends. We will miss you dearly. less
The world lost a beautiful soul the day that Hanan left us. I thank you for the kindness and love that you showed me throughout the years that we worked together, and even after. You left an imprint on the heart of every person you met, and I consider... moreThe world lost a beautiful soul the day that Hanan left us. I thank you for the kindness and love that you showed me throughout the years that we worked together, and even after. You left an imprint on the heart of every person you met, and I consider myself truly blessed to have crossed paths with you. My heart and thoughts are with your family during this difficult time. xoxo less
I met Hanan three years ago and after a very short time, it felt as if we had known each other for decades. Our at-work friendship quickly grew to gallery visits, High Park for cherry blossoms, treks through Unionville, and so much more. Lunch at... moreI met Hanan three years ago and after a very short time, it felt as if we had known each other for decades. Our at-work friendship quickly grew to gallery visits, High Park for cherry blossoms, treks through Unionville, and so much more. Lunch at Hanan’s house always seemed to be on offer when I was having a particularly rough day - rice and lentils, dates, her magical coffee and her company would spark a renewal.
Her respect and admiration for Nabil, her daughters and her grandsons was always evident, but somehow she spoke proudly of them while barely acknowledging her own influence; only their successes. At the same time, she well understood her strengths - she knew that the positive vibes she put out into the universe could counter negativity. Also - her biceps!
My condolences to harfoush family. This is an extremely difficult time for us as hanans friend. Hanan is a dear friend of mine that is always spontaneous humble and full of joy and warmth. Her love was genuine and her personal touch lit up every room.... moreMy condolences to harfoush family. This is an extremely difficult time for us as hanans friend. Hanan is a dear friend of mine that is always spontaneous humble and full of joy and warmth. Her love was genuine and her personal touch lit up every room. You will be greatly missed.
God bless her soul ...الله يرحمك ويخلي الموجودين less
To the Harfoush Family, we honor your mom's memory, we thank her for the times she welcomed us into your home, shared her delicious food, joyful conversation, taught her lentil soup recipe, shared her warm presence and kind spirit. We offer our deep... moreTo the Harfoush Family, we honor your mom's memory, we thank her for the times she welcomed us into your home, shared her delicious food, joyful conversation, taught her lentil soup recipe, shared her warm presence and kind spirit. We offer our deep condolences for such a tremendous loss, may time bring healing during this difficult time. Kris, Jack and Dave. less
When you left this world Thursday morning, I realized I’m not only losing a sister, but also a friend, a confidant, a traveling companion, a yoga trainer, and someone who could understand me without words. I still remember... moreDear little sister Hanan,
When you left this world Thursday morning, I realized I’m not only losing a sister, but also a friend, a confidant, a traveling companion, a yoga trainer, and someone who could understand me without words. I still remember the day you were born as if it was yesterday, and I’ll never forget the day you left us. Though we didn’t expect you to go so soon, I’m thankful to God for everyday I was able to be your big brother. Rest In peace my love, until we meet again. less
Nabil, my sincerest condolences to you and your family. Sylvia and I were in complete shock when we heard of Hanan's sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in these very difficult times.
I met Hanan when we both began... moreNabil, my sincerest condolences to you and your family. Sylvia and I were in complete shock when we heard of Hanan's sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in these very difficult times.
I met Hanan when we both began working at Mayhew, back in 1999. Each morning, Hanan would greet me with a smile and a hug. Always thinking of others before herself. Such a kind, loving and beautiful soul... She will forever be missed, but never forgotten. less
The news of Hanan's untimely passing is devastating for everyone who knew her. It is difficult to even grasp that I am writing in past tense about such a beautiful, energetic and kind soul.
But I do know that I will cherish the eight years that I worked... moreThe news of Hanan's untimely passing is devastating for everyone who knew her. It is difficult to even grasp that I am writing in past tense about such a beautiful, energetic and kind soul.
But I do know that I will cherish the eight years that I worked with Hanan and the conversations we had about life, family and religion. She was always so supportive to me especially as I entered motherhood and I know from our conversations how much she cherished her role as a mother and relished in the successes of her daughters.
I will miss Hanan immensely. May her memory be a blessing to everyone who knew her. less
God bless her soul , no words can express my sadness for her sudden and early loss, she will remain in our hearts with her shining smile.
My deep condolences to my dears Nabil, Rahaf, Riwa , Rania , Safwan , Safa, Tawfik , Taleb, Ali and all her loved... moreGod bless her soul , no words can express my sadness for her sudden and early loss, she will remain in our hearts with her shining smile.
My deep condolences to my dears Nabil, Rahaf, Riwa , Rania , Safwan , Safa, Tawfik , Taleb, Ali and all her loved ones.
Rest in peace Hanouneh, we will miss you ...
Salam Al Baba less
I remember the first time meeting Hanan over 21 years ago before we started working together. She was always so kind and helpful and would ask how my family was doing. I cannot find the words to say how much I will miss you. Condolences to your entire... moreI remember the first time meeting Hanan over 21 years ago before we started working together. She was always so kind and helpful and would ask how my family was doing. I cannot find the words to say how much I will miss you. Condolences to your entire family from the Clarke Family. less
Hanan ....I don't think you understand just how much happiness you brought to so many people. You could light up any room you walked in,Nobody was a stranger to you, from Damascus university where we first met to Toronto when we last talked promising... moreHanan ....I don't think you understand just how much happiness you brought to so many people. You could light up any room you walked in,Nobody was a stranger to you, from Damascus university where we first met to Toronto when we last talked promising each other to meet as soon as covid will give us a break .
you left us too soon my friend 🌹 less
We can’t find the words to express our sense of loss and sorrow. Hanan was a kind, generous, fun loving and pure soul. We will always remember our times with her filled with great conversation, laughter and joy. We are lucky to have had Hanan as part... moreWe can’t find the words to express our sense of loss and sorrow. Hanan was a kind, generous, fun loving and pure soul. We will always remember our times with her filled with great conversation, laughter and joy. We are lucky to have had Hanan as part of our lives and she will be missed dearly.
Amou Nabil, Rania, Rahaf and Riwa, our thoughts and prayers are with you. less
Dear Nabil,Riwa,Rahaf, Raina and family
Life takes us in different directions but I will never forget the times we shared with your family. Hanna exuded warmth, love and kindness to everyone. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her. I will try to... moreDear Nabil,Riwa,Rahaf, Raina and family
Life takes us in different directions but I will never forget the times we shared with your family. Hanna exuded warmth, love and kindness to everyone. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her. I will try to make “Hanan’s treat” and remember all the meals we shared.
Our deepest condolences, Linda, Peter and family less
Walter and I remember the many Aita family gatherings, where we first met Hanan and Nabil. Over the years, we had the pleasure of getting to know the beautiful, kind and generous person that was Hanan. She had the most playful nature and her radiant... moreWalter and I remember the many Aita family gatherings, where we first met Hanan and Nabil. Over the years, we had the pleasure of getting to know the beautiful, kind and generous person that was Hanan. She had the most playful nature and her radiant smile would light up any room. We consider ourselves blessed to have shared in such wonderful celebrations with your family.
Nabil, Rania, Riwa and Rahaf, we grieve for your unbelievable loss, Hanan will be forever missed and loved.
Our deepest condolences,
Walter and Dian less
When we was Kids I’ll always remember the time tant Hanan Save us from troubles, and she let us do all kind of funs .
She share her positive energy, with everyone around her .this photo was the last time we gather in 2010 .but Our hearts are with... moreWhen we was Kids I’ll always remember the time tant Hanan Save us from troubles, and she let us do all kind of funs .
She share her positive energy, with everyone around her .this photo was the last time we gather in 2010 .but Our hearts are with you and we will always pray for you ❤ less
The first day i met Hanan i knew i would never feel alone at work. She welcomed me as if i knew her forever and that was true, after a couple weeks we were so close that i would share everything with her and that was the monent i called her “habibi”.... moreThe first day i met Hanan i knew i would never feel alone at work. She welcomed me as if i knew her forever and that was true, after a couple weeks we were so close that i would share everything with her and that was the monent i called her “habibi”. It is so difficult for me to write this when i know she is goong to be there in my heart and my mind no matter how far she might be. Habibi, i will never forget your beautiful smile and positive energy. You have taught me so mich which i will be grateful forever. My condolences to the family, relatives and friends. You are in my heart and prayers! Love you habibi ❤️ less
Can there be a perfect person in life.... Someone who doesn’t challenge or question but just accepts people at face value for what they are.
Or accepts life for what it has given......
Syria .... Father... moreOn behalf of Jan & Trilly Heynike:
Hannan
Can there be a perfect person in life.... Someone who doesn’t challenge or question but just accepts people at face value for what they are.
Or accepts life for what it has given......
Syria .... Father and family so far away and under such restrictions
I loved sending you the photos of the markets when I visited Damascus . The ones you missed so much .... That gave you the ingredients for the wonderful meals we had
I just miss you.
Such an open and uncomplicated friend . You just gave love and food and cuisine with no barriers whatever.
PS every time I heard a reporter from Syria with your Hannan accent I would say I miss Hannan.
So saddened to hear this shocking news. Our heart goes out to the entire family. Such a big loss. Nabil, Rania, Rahaf and Riwa you are in our thoughts and prayers. Hanan was full of life and she will be deeply missed. May her soul Rest In Peace.
Nasser... moreSo saddened to hear this shocking news. Our heart goes out to the entire family. Such a big loss. Nabil, Rania, Rahaf and Riwa you are in our thoughts and prayers. Hanan was full of life and she will be deeply missed. May her soul Rest In Peace.
Nasser and Roula Rifai less
I’ll always remember the time when we spent our first time in Toronto - Hanan welcomed us as part of the family. She cooked and served an astonishing Syrian dinner, we talked and laughed a lot. Her hospitality towards us we won't ever forget. Our happy... moreI’ll always remember the time when we spent our first time in Toronto - Hanan welcomed us as part of the family. She cooked and served an astonishing Syrian dinner, we talked and laughed a lot. Her hospitality towards us we won't ever forget. Our happy memories of nice evenings will stay in our hearts forever.
Antje and Family from Berlin, Germany less
I am so sorry to hear the news. I wish I could be there, and I wish there were something I could do. I want you to know that I was lucky to have known her. And I'm grateful for the time I got to share with her. Always smiled, always cared, even when... moreI am so sorry to hear the news. I wish I could be there, and I wish there were something I could do. I want you to know that I was lucky to have known her. And I'm grateful for the time I got to share with her. Always smiled, always cared, even when time was scarce, she made it abundant. Your mother was more than exceptional. Knowing that she has past is too hard to accept or understand. None the less I will be celebrating her life and how lucky we all were to have known such a person. less
When I think of your wife and mother all that comes to mind is her generous joy and her contagious laughter. I remember our second meeting where she teased Denis and challenged him to a competitive card game, her awe at the rows of... moreDear family,
When I think of your wife and mother all that comes to mind is her generous joy and her contagious laughter. I remember our second meeting where she teased Denis and challenged him to a competitive card game, her awe at the rows of beautiful flowers at Rungis market on the eve of Alex and Ri's wedding, the delicious gift of a Syrian celebration dinner and dancing the night away with her as if we were teenagers. The Terrien clan are honoured to count you as family. Much love. Elisabeth, Denis, Alex, Jules, Cha and Jo less
Grant and I are so saddened by the loss of your mother. What an amazing woman she must have been to have raised you two amazing women with such hearts and minds.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family and we are thinking... moreDear Rahaf & Riwa,
Grant and I are so saddened by the loss of your mother. What an amazing woman she must have been to have raised you two amazing women with such hearts and minds.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family and we are thinking of Hanan in our prayers.
We will reach out when you have had your personal time.