It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of a wonderful Mom, sister, aunt, cousin, neighbour, and friend on September 1st, 2005. Born in Ladysmith on April 9th, 1923, Norma lived here for most of her life, except for two childhood years spent at Camp Six. For 24 years, she and her husband Duke enjoyed living in Cassidy, owning and operating McNeil's Store. A devoted community citizen, who constantly reminded us all that we live in the best place in the world, Norma served her town well, sitting on several committees, including the Ladysmith Hospital Board and the Ladysmith Recreation Commission. In recent years, she especially relished discussing (as only Norma could "discuss"!) town politics with her friend, Mayor Hutchins. An avid reader, cross-word puzzle devotee, gardener, cat-lover, co-dog raiser with her daughter Lynnie, and "news junkie", Norma kept us all on our toes, and will be sorely missed. Predeceased by her son, Paddy (1973), and her husband Duke (2000), Norma is survived by the "light of her life", her daughter Lynn McNeil (Victoria), her devoted sister and companion, Irene Batie (Ladysmith), her nephew, Mike (Ann) Batie (Ladysmith), her niece Marie Brown (John Mossey) of Nanaimo, her great niece and great nephews, Jill and Steven Batie (Vancouver & Victoria) and Jadeon Brown (Nanaimo), as well as many cousins. A memorial tea will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Br. #171 Hall in Ladysmith on Saturday, September 10th, 2005 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ladysmith Hospital Auxiliary would be very much appreciated. The family would especially like to thank the incomparably compassionate and caring nursing staff at the Ladysmith Hospital for their devoted support. Norma - and we - appreciated you so very much. You are awesome!
The Family