Obituary of Cornelius Patrick Handran

Cornelius Patrick Handran passed away peacefully on February 26, 2011 in Tacoma, Washington surrounded by his Family. He was born February 16, 1918 in Daniels County, Montana to William Handran and Margaret (Hughes) Handran. "Neil" was the oldest of eight children and grew up on the family farm located between Wolfpoint and Scobey, Montana. He graduated from Scobey High School where he also lettered in track and participated in the State track finals as a member of the relay team. He moved to Washington State in the early 1940s with his wife Margaret Elizabeth (Burke) and relatives in search of work. They settled first in Spanaway, Washington and later moved to Tacoma, Washington where they raised three children. Neil was a member of Visitation Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #3 and he retired from the Furniture workers union. He was an accomplished musician playing guitar, banjo and harmonica. His other hobbies were carpentry, gardening, and watching sports especially baseball and football. Neil was a real "people person" and he loved chatting with family, and friends. Neil was a devoted Catholic and true American Patriot. He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret (Burke) and two sons Leland and Joseph. He is survived by one daughter, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. The Family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the nursing staff at Alaska Gardens Health and Rehabilitation Center for their compassion the past few months. Rosary will be recited 10:30 am Monday, March 7th at Visitation Catholic Church, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Mt. View Memorial Park. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Church, 3314 South 58th Street, Tacoma 98409. Arrangements by Piper-Morley-Mellinger Funeral Home 253/472-3353