Having recently celebrated his 90th birthday, Norman passed away in the Palliative Care Unit of Brantford General Hospital, from complications brought about by Alzheimer's. Norman was the beloved husband and best friend of Norah for more than 60 years. He was a loving and supportive father to his two daughters, Fiona (Bob) and Lorna (Heather). Dearly cherished grandfather to his only grandchild, Catherine. Norman was recently predeceased by his dear sister, Elsa; and sister-in-law, Jean. He is remembered fondly by his nieces, Susan and Kirsteen and their families in Scotland; and by his cousins, Sheena Colville and Cathie Cuthbert. Norman leaves behind many wonderful friends in Canada, Scotland and England.
Norman grew up on the Island of Bute (Rothesay) on the west coast of Scotland, graduating from Glasgow University Medical School in 1957. He was proud to serve as a Medical Officer (rank of Captain) in the Royal Army Medical Corps in the late 1950s, returning to the UK to establish his medical practice as a General Practitioner. Wanting better opportunities for his daughters, Norman and his family immigrated to Canada in 1972, settling in Brantford, Ontario. For more than 35 years he was a trusted family doctor in Brantford, who cared greatly for his patients, spending time listening to their needs and always interested in their families' well-being. Norman continued to make house calls when house calls became a thing of the past, and he made time for a chat when he ran into a patient outside of "office hours."
Norman was a dedicated member of Red Cross and volunteer to St. John Ambulance for over 20 years. Norman loved walking and hiking, he read any book that had a first and last page and, if you had an ear, he had a story or "wee" Scottish poem for you. He was also dedicated (read, slightly addicted) to the game of golf, and was proud to have grown up playing on a 13-hole golf course that didn't have a single flat lie. He developed and maintained lifelong friendships through his love of the game.
While advancing Alzheimer's took its toll on Norman, he battled the disease with great dignity and until his recent hospitalization, he was able to live at home, cherishing the company and care of his loving wife (and the occasional nip of his ever-present Famous Grouse scotch whiskey). Norman loved and was loved, what we all wish for in life.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at: www.beckettglaves.com The family requests no flowers, but should you wish, a charitable donation to Doctors Without Borders or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.