Norman Holmes
1921-2019
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our dear father,
Norman Holmes, 97, of St. Stephen, NB, on July 15th at Charlotte
County Hospital. Born in Yorkshire, England, on October 27th, 1921 to
the late Elizabeth (Hay) and Willie Holmes.
Norman is survived by his son, Philip Holmes of St. Stephen, daughter
Carolyn Messer (Dayle) of Saint John, grandchildren Kimberley Messer
(Kirsten ) of Toronto, Christopher Messer (Sarah) of Saint John and
four great grandchildren, William and Ethan Messer and Joah and Colby
Elizabeth Messer/Johnson, and several nieces and nephews. Norman is
predeceased by his wife, Barbara, brothers Jack and Sydney and sisters
Anne, Mary, Ethel and Edith.
Norman came to Canada with his parents and six siblings in 1927 when
he was five years old. They arrived in Waweig, NB and were met with
many challenges to feed a large family. Waweig neighbours pitched in
before winter and gave them a start. Norman often shared wonderful
stories of the early years helping us to see how much easier life is
today but Dad would say not necessarily better.
Norman served overseas during WWII with the 402 Squadron of the RCAF
as a aircraft mechanic where he met his future bride. After the war he
returned to Charlotte County where in took a six month course in
automotive repair. In later years he would become president of the
Milltown Garage where he built a successful car dealership and service
station..
Norman was a life time member of the Canadian Legion and over the
years proudly paraded with wife, Barbara, on Remembrance Day. The two
loved sharing war experiences with the local schools. He was a life
time member of the Masonic Lodge and belonged to Kirk McCall United
Church. He was a member of the St. Stephen Curling Club, golf club and
was an honorary member of the Maritimes Senior Golf Association.
Norman served as president of the St. Stephen Kiwanis Club and the
Royal Canadian legion. As well he served his community for three terms
on the Town Council.
Our dad had a great love of gardening. His back yard was always in
beautiful bloom and enjoyed by the many birds at his feeder and the
occasional deer, regretfully, that ate his rose buds. His wood working
shop produced treasured projects of furniture pieces large and small
which he lovingly gave to friends and family. Family and friends
especially enjoyed his garden gazebo.
The family would like to thank all those in the Veterans Department
who helped him with his home support, Dr. Konforte and those at the
Charlotte County Hospital who on many occasions helped our dad return
home after reoccurring illnesses. A very special thanks to Extramural,
visiting nurses, Home Support and Personal Care workers.. Family,
friends and neighbours were so appreciated for their visits, special
treats and concerns.
Resting at Humphreys Funeral Home,20 Marks Street, St. Stephen., NB
Visitations from 6:00 – 8:00 pm on Thursday evening from the
funeral home..
A tribue to a veteran service will be conducted at the funeral
home on Thursday evening at 5:30 pm
The funeral service will be held at Kirk McColl United Church on
Friday, July 19th, 2019 at 1:00 pm. Rev. Dr. Mark Hatfield
officiating, with a reception to follow in the church hall. Donations
may be made to a charity of choice. Personal condolences to family may
be made through www.humphreysfh.com
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Norman Holmes 19212019..
Décès pour la Ville: St-Stephen, Province: Nouveau-Brunswick