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SMITH, Norman Arthur Emmons

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20230623smithdn

 1926-2023

Norm A.E. Smith passed away peacefully with loving care by his side on Tuesday, June 19, 2023 at Aspira Heatherwood Retirement Living in St Catharines.

Norm was born on the south shore of Nova Scotia, in grandmother's house - Doctors Cove, Nova Scotia August 30, 1926.  At the spirited age of 16, Norm was excited to join his father (Captain Norm) at sea and served with him in WW2.  He joined the Merchant Navy, completing his Grade 12 through correspondence while aboard a ship. Norm spent the next 8 years at sea, sailing around the world, on 4 different ships and climbed in rank to become a 3rd mate/officer.  Norm was very proud of his service and received numerous medals of achievement.  At any point in time, if asked, he would jump into a story about his sea life. 

During the war is when he met the love of his life, the late Shirley Christine Smith in Halifax - they married September 3, 1949 and moved to St. Catharines a few years later.  They both were very proud of the family they raised and in love for 70 years.  They would say, “the key to their lifelong marriage was laughter and love”.        

Norm started his long-term career at the Mercury Paints, later named Sterling Varnish where he climbed in rank to manage the plant as a Vice President.  A hard worker and steady leader for 30 years on the job, retiring at the age of 62 in 1980. He impacted many lives and hired many people including 3 of his 4 children.

He was a Mason and a devoted Legionnaire.  He was President of St. Catharines Branch 24 for 5 years and a provincial snooker champion.  He loved his Sunday morning legion curling and a good ole fish fry and dance.  Norm loved his family, his nieces, nephews and neighbours.  He loved people in his life, especially his caregiver Ruth.  He craved Nova Scotia and his cottage at Sebim Beach.  His many friends in Sebim will miss him.

 A day in his life would include telling stories, singing funny songs, wearing silly hats, having cocktails, playing cards, golfing with his buddies, digging clams, mussels, and filling the room with laughter - with anyone and everyone.  He liked parties and parties liked him.  Norman and Shirley were known to throw a great party, often starting at happy hour and if a piano was available, Shirley would just start to play.  These are the memories that his friends and family connect with.  
      
Norman is survived by his children, Norman Arthur (Art) Smith (Lucy Smith), Christine (Chris) Marie Morgan (David Morgan), Sandra (Sandy) Arlene Konecny (Joe Konecny) and James Perley Smith (Maureen Dewan) and his grandchildren Amanda, Jessica, Jeff, Brian, Mike, Jennifer, Dan, Kelsey, Holly, Rachel and 11 great grandchildren.  Norm is also survived by his sister-in-law Marie Nicholson.

Norman received attentive care right up to the end of his life. A special sincere thank you goes to Ruth his caregiver, who became a friend and companion, his friends and the many wonderful staff at the Heatherwood for being so considerate and loving.

In honouring Norm’s wishes, a memorial ceremony will be planned at a later date in Nova Scotia (as requested by both Shirley and Norman).  Memorial donations to The Royal Canadian Legion Branch Poppy Fund would be appreciated.  Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (between Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144.  Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca