February 10, 1910 - June 25, 2020
It is with great sadness, that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, father, grandfather (Papa/Pop), great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather and friend.
Wesley Norrish was born February 10, 1919 at home on the family farm in Hawarden, Sask. and passed away peacefully June 25, 2020 at Cascade Hospice, Chilliwack, B.C. at the age of 101.
Wesley was predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years, June in 2007, his parents Jean and Albert, five siblings, son-in-law (Dave), and one great granddaughter. Wesley is survived by his four daughters Shirley (Alan), Joyce (Bill), Judy and Gail (Danny), eight grandchildren, Doug, Dwayne, Karen, Janice, Christopher, Dawn, Daniel, and Katherine, twenty-four great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and two brothers, Harold and Albert. Wes "Pop" will be fondly remembered by all, especially for his patience and unbelievable memory. He was considered the family historian.
In 1934, Wesley's parents moved their family from Hawarden, Sask. to Chilliwack, B.C. In May 1940, Wes met June Collins and they were married Oct. 18, 1940. In 1941, Wes served in the Canadian Air Force until his medical discharge then spent a number of years living and working in Vancouver. In 1945, with their daughters, Wes and June returned to Chilliwack and in 1946, he and his brother, Ralph started Norrish Bros.Construction which later became Norrish Bros. Building Supplies. In 1956, Norrish Bros. moved to their new building on Yale Road which years later became Rona Building Supplies. In 1956, Wes and his partners purchased Central Sand and Gravel in Prince George. Between 1957 and 1965, Wes and June moved their family back and forth between Prince George and Chilliwack. In 1965, they made their final move back to Chilliwack and in 1966, Wes and partners started Cascade True-Mix. In 1978 and following years, Wes and partners expanded their company to include Cascade Masonry, Tower Precast and the building of Cascade Centre strip mall.
Wes never fully retired and continued construction through his late 90s, as well as continuing to keep meticulous records on the computer. He was always busy, whether building houses, furniture, rock walls, or gardening, Wes and June enjoyed holidaying in their RV's, travelling / cruising, visiting with his extended family and many friends, and attending the Norrish Family reunions.
Wes, known endearingly as "Pop"was a true inspiration to his family; his consistent hard work ethic, his infectious smile, his never-ending knowledge which always led to his ability to show you the right way to do whatever task was ahead, and his selflessness that was always at his core. Pop was a gift to everyone whose lives he touched.
Wesley has been a member of the Elks of Canada since March 1952 and received a plaque for his 100th birthday.
The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the caring staff at the Cascade Hospice and especially Dr. Ta for his thoughtful care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Wesley's name to a charity of your choice.
Due to the Covid 19 Virus and the social distancing guidelines, the funeral will be a private service for Wes's family only.