In Loving Memory of Hjordis Anne (Andreson) Armitage

March 4, 1938  -  September 3, 2025

On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Hjordis Anne (Andreson) Armitage passed away peacefully at the age of 87 surrounded by her family.

Hjordis's journey began on March 4, 1938, in Edmonton, Alberta, born in the old Misericordia Hospital off Jasper Avenue. She was the eldest child of Harold (Gravalid) and Borghild (Ronjom) Andreson, both proud Norwegian immigrants who had come to Canada in the 1920s - Harold at 22 and Borghild at just 19. Her parents met in Edmonton, married in 1935, and built a life rooted in family, hard work, and community.

As the big sister to two brothers and a sister, Hjordis grew up with strong family values and a sense of responsibility. Her early education began in Edmonton, but her family's path had her attend school in Irma, Jarrow, and then Kinsella, where the Andreson family settled. As Kinsella School only went to Grade 11, Hjordis completed her Grade 12 in Camrose, then went on to attend the University of Alberta in Edmonton, enrolling in a special teaching program that launched her lifelong dedication to education.

Her teaching career began in Dickson, AB, followed by two years in Innisfail, before returning closer to home to teach at Albert School, just north of Irma. It was during these years that she met Thomas William (Bill) Armitage. After a long courtship the two were married on August 4, 1962, and shortly thereafter, Hjordis stepped away from teaching to raise their growing family. Their first daughter arrived in 1963, followed by two more girls, and together, Bill and Hjordis laid the foundation for Angus Acres, their family farm.

Hospitality became second nature to Hjordis. With a passion for cooking and a deep love for entertaining, she welcomed guests from near and far to their home including many international visitors on Angus and Norwegian tours. A founding member of the Kinsella Performing Arts Guild (KPAG), she became legendary for her homemade meals. Her philosophy was simple: if the food was exceptional, no one would mind if the entertainment wasn't perfect. With Hjordis's influence in the kitchen, no one ever went hungry, and no one ever forgot the experience.

In 2001, Bill and Hjordis and their family were recognized with the Northlands Farm Family Award, a testament to their dedication and legacy in Alberta agriculture. Ever the storyteller and nurturer, she later compiled her cherished recipes into the Angus Acres Cookbook, published in 2017 as a gift for her family.

Hjordis was known for her sharp mind, strong will, honesty, and no-nonsense leadership qualities that made her a respected figure in her community. She was never one to shy away from responsibility, whether that meant chairing multiple committees or leading initiatives. Even in the last year, she became President of the Resident Council Committee at the Viking Extendicare. She was an advocate for her fellow residents, offering guidance, and displaying her determination to "get the job done right".

Throughout her life, Hjordis remained a committed volunteer and community leader. She was actively involved in the Kinsella United Church Women's Group (UCW), the Kinsella Royal Purple (OORP), and the Angus Women's group. Her leadership reached new heights when she became the first woman elected to the Beaver County Council, representing Division 1 (now Division 5) for three terms. She served on numerous boards and committees and continued her involvement with the County of Beaver Subdivision and Appeal Board well into her 70's.

Amidst her many accomplishments, it was the quiet moments that brought her joy. She loved painting particularly Norwegian rosemaling, Norwegian knitting, a good card game, a visit with neighbors or an adventure. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was their teacher, their chef, their card-playing partner, and their biggest cheerleader. Whether it was taking them out for supper, a game of bingo with Great Grandma Mary, her famous sleep overs or crafting wooden treasures, time with Grandma Hjordis was always magical. The grandkids never wanted to go home.

May Hjordis's legacy of love, hard work, and community spirit live on in all who knew her.

Hjordis will be forever loved and deeply missed by her three daughters: Hjordis 'Jo-Anne' MacKay, Mary Lee (Blake) Prior, Patricia Armitage (Vern Chichak). Her 6 grandchildren: Clark (Janeece) MacKay, Jarvis (Andrea) MacKay, Reece MacKay, Jordyn Prior, Dallon (Morgan) Prior, Denver (Shania) Prior. Her 7 great grandchildren. Her siblings: Aileen (Keith) Brower, and Ken Andreson. As well as extended family and friends.

Hjordis was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Bill Armitage, son-in-law, Dwight MacKay, her parents, Harold and Borghild Andreson, one brother, Allan Andreson, sister-in-law Judy Andreson.

The family invites you to join them for a celebration of life on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at the Kinsella Hall. If so desired, the family suggests memorial donations can be made to the Kinsella Cemetery Fund, c/o Rosalie Skori, PO Box 32, Viking, AB, T0B 4N0.