John passed away early in the morning of September 29, 2017 - sitting in his favourite reading spot at the cottage after living life to its fullest for 78 years.
Loving husband to Ruth, his wife of 52 years, wonderful dad to Jennifer and Jill (Brian), and amazing Poppa to Josh, Rebecca, Ava, and Emmy.
John grew up in the Swansea neighbourhood of Toronto with his cherished family - parents Jack and Ivy Norman, brother Don and sister Elizabeth. He spent happy years at Swansea Public School and Runnymede Collegiate Institute.
John attended Victoria University at the University of Toronto to study Geology. His studies led him to landing amazing summer positions with the Ontario Geological Survey on the Albany River and with Texaco in British Columbia. John loved his canoe trips – and we as a family loved listening as he recounted his adventures.
As the years went on, John’s family grew to include mother-in-law Donalda Smith, Ruth’s sisters and their husbands - Kathryn McCarroll (Paul) and Barb Corbet (Gene), and sister-in-law Mary Norman. John became a beloved Uncle and Great-Uncle to many nieces and nephews.
John started his work career as a high school science teacher, working his way up to Principal (Richview C.I and West Humber Collegiate) and ultimately Superintendent, all with the Etobicoke Board of Education. A dedicated educator and basketball coach, John influenced the lives of generations of students and staff.
Nothing made John happier than being at the cottage with his family and friends during the summer months and on the ski hill during the winter. We have so many wonderful memories to cherish.
Friends may call at the Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. W., at Windermere, east of the Jane subway, on Friday October 13th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm and 7:00 -9:00 pm. Cremation has taken place. For those who wish, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at Caledon Ski Club, Belfountain, on Saturday, October 14th at the Main Lodge from 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm.