Norman was born and raised in North Burnaby, B.C. He was the youngest of 3 children born to John and Mary Newall.
Norman met his future wife Florence McDonnell at age 14 and they became lifelong companions.
After high school graduation he received a scholarship and enrolled at UBC to study Engineering. Upon graduation Norm joined Imperial Oil Ltd. During his career at Esso he worked as a project engineer supervising construction at refineries in 6 provinces and the N.W.T. A particular highlight of his career was 4 years spent as the refinery manager in Norman Wells.
Following his retirement the pride of his life was building his own waterfront home on Vancouver Island. He and Florence spent 17 good years there. During that time he was able to hone his skills at woodturning. As a result, our homes were filled with countless hand-made plates, bowls, and vases.
Norman and Florence had 5 children. Terry (Judi), David, deceased (Donna), Donna (Tom), Peter (Jeannette), Joan (Paul). They were proud grandparents to 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Our father was always kind and helpful to us all and showed extreme patience to those of us who needed it most.
He was predeceased by his wife Florence in 2012. Norm was at her side to the last moment.
From that point forward his life was marked by gradual descent into dementia. Although in good physical health aside from the usual aches and pains, over time he began to feel that he had had enough. He remained in good spirits but often commented that he would like to go to sleep and not wake up.
On May 9th his wish was granted.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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