Norman Ray Close

Norman Ray Close went home to be with the Lord at age 69, on July 22, 2016, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Henderson, Nevada on May 20, 1947, as one of the first “preemies” at St. Rose De Lima Hospital. His parents and grandparents had moved to Henderson in the late 30’s, early 40’s. His grandparents owned Ernie’s Motel on Boulder Highway. His father, Norman E. Close, co-owned C & H Air Conditioning in Las Vegas. In his early years Norman enjoyed boating and water skiing on Lake Mead. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and family gatherings.

Norman graduated from Basic High School in 1965. He joined the U.S. Air Force for 4 years, where he worked as an airplane mechanic during the Vietnam War. After serving he worked for his father in Sheet Metal and later joined and retired from Local #88 Sheet Metal Union after 25 years in 1999. Norm enjoyed many friendships that lasted well beyond retirement from the Local Union.

Following retirement he kept active in Christian Church fellowships and activities. He really loved his “second” family the W.E.B.S. and had a deep relationship with many of them. He loved sharing the Good News with friends and strangers alike and would talk to anyone he came across. Norman was always willing to give a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He was likable and after meeting him, people would say he was “sweet”, “cute”, “helpful” and “lovable”. To his family, he was all these things and more!

Norman enjoyed being at home, watching movies and listening to music. More than anything, he loved spending time with family and friends. He loved creating masterpieces (furniture, metal figurines, food), enjoyed carpentry, and could “MacGgyver” anything!

He is survived by his wife Karen, his daughter Tina, son-in-law Martin, son Norman, granddaughters Taylor and Alysha, nephew Michael, and niece Jenny and family.

In lieu of flowers, Norman requested that if you can’t bring yourself to vote for Donald Trump, please don’t vote at all.

Burial services will be private. Please feel free to email photos to [email protected] for uploading to this site and/or share memories directly on this site. Thank you all for your love, prayers and support and may God bless you all!