Norman V. Garrelts

Norman V. Garrelts, a cherished, devoted, and accomplished individual, passed away on December 9, 2024, at the age of 84. Born on February 19, 1940, in McPherson, Kansas, to Lural and Loretta (Mulshine) Garrelts, Norman spent his formative years in Tupper Lake, where he graduated from Tupper Lake High School. He furthered his education at Villanova University, earning a bachelor's degree in economics. On February 23, 1963, he was united in marriage to Shirley Woods.

Norm's professional journey began with Sears in 1963 where he helped manage a small catalogue store in Tupper Lake NY. He continued his journey with Sears where he held positions of increasing responsibility and moved frequently throughout the Northeast during his time with the company. He ultimately retired from the company after 30 successful years, in 1993, as a regional manager of stores in the New England states. After a brief retirement, he joined the Hackett Hardware family as their Chief Executive Officer, a role he held from 1995 until his retirement in 2009.

Norm is survived by his beloved wife Shirley; his two sons, Tim (Mary) Garrelts of North Hampton, NH, and Todd (Lynn) Garrelts of Queensbury; six grandchildren, Cameron, Cassandra, Christopher, Caten, Caroline, and Christian. He is also survived by his brother Denis (Mickey) Garrelts of Burke, VA, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Lural and Lauretta Garrelts, and two brothers, Richard (Dolly) and Gerry (Rita) Garrelts.

In his leisure time, Norm enjoyed golfing, boating, hunting, gardening, fishing, and watching college basketball, especially Villanova games. He also had a passion for working around the house and loved outdoor projects. His greatest joy, however, was spending time with his family. His holidays, travel, and summers were centered around family, and one of his most treasured pastimes was spending time around the St. Lawrence River with his grandchildren during the summers in Ogdensburg.

Norman was an active member of the Rotary and Lions Club in Glens Falls and served as a board member for several organizations, including the Claxton Hepburn Hospital, United Helpers, and the Remington Art Museum in Ogdensburg.

The family has requested that memorial donations be made to the Ogdensburg Boys & Girls Club, SPCA, Claxton Hepburn Hospital, or the Remington Art Museum.

A celebration of his life will be held in the future at a time to be announced.