Willard William Norris

It is with profound sadness and immense love that we announce the passing of Willard William Norris (affectionately known as Will or Doc) — a cherished husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, beloved brother, uncle to many, loyal friend, and respected colleague.

Born on a snowy December day in 1936 in Alma, Ontario, Will was the son of Nina and Elroy Norris. Raised on a farm alongside his many siblings — Merlyn (Jean), Ronald (Peggy), Elwyn (Phyllis), Lorne (Eula), Carmen (Elizabeth), Ian, Rilla (Leslie), Ilene (Alva), and Catherine (Ibra) — Will developed a strong work ethic, a deep sense of family, and a love for the simple joys of life. He was predeceased by all of his siblings and their spouses, save for his sister Catherine. The bonds between them, however, never faded.

Will’s journey took him from the fields of Alma to the halls of the Ontario Agricultural College in Guelph, and eventually to the bright lights and icy arenas of the National Hockey League. At just 17, he donned his first referee’s jersey, not knowing he was stepping into what would become a remarkable and storied career. He joined the Guelph Referee Association and was mentored by many of its outstanding members.

In 1967, Will joined the NHL as a linesman, a role he held with passion and pride for 18 unforgettable seasons. He officiated an astounding 1,496 regular-season games and 96 playoff matchups. Some of his most treasured memories included being on the ice for Darryl Sittler’s legendary 10-point game, and skating alongside greats like Bobby Hull, Jean Béliveau, Wayne Gretzky, and Bobby Orr.

After hanging up his skates, Will continued to shape the future of hockey as the Referee-in-Chief of the Ontario Hockey Association, and later returned to the NHL as Coordinator of Development — mentoring young officials and leaving his mark on the generations that followed. In 2003, he was honoured to be inducted into the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame, a recognition of a lifetime of dedication to the game he loved. In his later years, he officiated for the Good Timers, an old-timer hockey team that exemplified the kind of enduring friendships he built wherever he went.

Yet for all his professional accolades, Will’s heart was always with his family and friends. He was the loving and steadfast husband of Patricia Norris, with whom he shared 56 years of love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they made countless cherished memories at their cottage on Lake Huron and during their many winters spent in sunny Florida.

Will was a proud and loving father to Krista Senior (Craig) and Brad Norris (Alice), and a doting grandfather to Danielle (Jon), Carly, and Caitlyn Senior, and Ethan Norris. Nothing brought him more joy than teaching his grandchildren how to skate — a gift from his heart passed down on blades.

Will lived fully and gave freely — of his time, his wisdom, and his wonderful sense of humour. He had a quick wit, a twinkle in his eye, and an endless supply of jokes. And yes, he could be a tad stubborn — just enough to keep things interesting!

Whether casting a line, swinging a golf club, or cheering on the Masters, Will approached life with joy and enthusiasm. He forged deep, lasting friendships — from his college years and NHL career to the cottage and weekly coffee groups. His presence lit up a room, and his stories always drew a crowd.

Will passed away peacefully in Guelph, Ontario, surrounded by love. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in the many lives he touched.

Visitation will be held at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home (1099 Gordon St, Guelph, ON N1G 4X9): Saturday, April 19 from 2:00–4:00 PM and 7:00–9:00 PM

Sunday, April 20 from 2:00–6:00 PM

Cremation and private burial service to be held.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Will’s memory may be made to Guelph General Hospital. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the incredible hospital staff for their unwavering care, compassion, and support.

We will miss Will deeply — his love, his laughter, and his wisdom. But we remain endlessly grateful for the gift of his life and the legacy he leaves, both on the ice and forever in our hearts.