Oct. 1, 1939 - June 10, 2011
Sadly Norm passed away at home following an 11 month battle with Cancer. His wife Cecelia and his friend and Home-Care nurse Norma were at his side when he peacefully passed away. He fought his cancer valiantly, cared for his wife daily and never complained once right up to the end. Even during his last days wanted to make sure the bills were paid and Mom didn’t have to worry about a thing. Two days before he passed he managed enough strength to tell us “Not to forget the garbage, it goes out tonight”.
Norm was a simple man not wanting much, just going through life making sure his wife of 51 years was cared for. Cecelia suffered a stroke 17 years ago and it was Norm who cared for her daily even when he needed care. He loved his boys and would talk to his son in New Zealand every day on “Skype”. He adored his two young grandchildren and would light up as soon as they walked through the door.
Norm is survived by his wife Cecelia, sons Norm Jr. (Joldie), Ernie (Karen) and grandchildren Jake and Macy. He is also survived by his two older brothers, Don (Janet) and Ernie (Audrey). His brothers were by his side and supportive right to the end.
Norm was a true born Vancouverite. He grew up just off Boundary Rd. on the Burnaby side and tormented the streets back in the late 50’s. He often told us the story how he got all 4 wheels off the ground in his ’53 Chev going down Boundary Rd.
Norm met Cecelia at school when they were 13 years old and were married in 1960. He was one of those guys that didn’t like change, thus proving once you get a job…. stay at it! His one and only job was with Neon Products Sign Company. He obtained his Sheet Metal apprenticeship in 1956 and stayed there till retirement.
In 1961 they bought a new home in North Burnaby and raised the family until 1994. It was then that they retired and move out to Chilliwack. Coming out to Chilliwack allowed him to be closer to his beloved fishing. He had a trailer up at the Slesse Campground and would go every weekend until just this year. He fished the Vedder River thousands of times and this is where he would love to be placed to rest! We will honour that request with a riverside service at noon on October 1st (Dad’s Birthday)
Happy Fishing, Dad