Norman Way

Norman was born to Ollos and Inez Way at their home in San Dimas, California. He was the third of four siblings including Dean, Doris, and Doug. Norm grew up loving animals cultivated by his Grandparents on their farm on what was called Way Hill. Norm's first job was at his Uncle Howard's print shop. He became a typesetter and finally worked the Linotype machine. Norm also came to enjoy music. He learned to play trombone, accordion, and his favorite, piano. Norm loved classical music and Chopin was his preferred composer. He sang barbershop for fun and Church choir for praise of the Lord. His family attended a local Methodist Church where his Christian roots began. After hearing of the attack on Pearl Harbor, at a rodeo, Norm enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17. After duty on a Subchaser for three years and WWII ending, Norm was Honorably Discharged. Upon his return home, Norm found work in the LA County Fire Department. It was at this time that Norm met the love of his life, Dorothy Ruth Lindstorm, on a blind date. They were married in 1951. They had three children and Norm supported them by joining a new family business, Way's Plating, later renamed Anodyne. Norm moved his family to the city of Orange as the business had moved. Norm and Dorothy joined St. Paul's Lutheran Church and grew in their faith in Jesus Christ. Norm became an Elder, sang in the choir, and taught Bible Study. Daughter Terry married in 1975 and moved to Minnesota to raise a family. Upon retirement, Norm and Dorothy traveled America in their 5th wheel RV. They loved the open road and the great outdoors. Norm's daughter Laurie was married in 1990. Her husband, and brother Brian, decided to start a business in Salem, Oregon. Norm followed their lead and made the move as well. Norm Dorothy and son Brian attended Salem Heights Church for twenty plus years to further their faith. Norm lost his beloved wife of 66 years in 2017. He survived her by five years, until succumbing to old age under complications of aspiration pneumonia. Norm fell into the arms of the Lord while on the road with his son, listening to the word of God being preached on the radio, and doing a classic car show drive-by. Norm is now reunited with departed loved ones and in the presence of the Savior he so trusted. Norm's example, sweet spirit, and kindness has led his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren into the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. A life well lived!