Norman Daniel Casler

May 22, 2019
Norman Daniel Casler, Saltair boy, passed away May 22, 2019 at the age of 61, of complications resulting from a mighty battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 40 years Marilyn, his children Daniel and Melanie, his parents Sam and Dona, his siblings Sam, Tom and Leslie, many nieces and nephews, and his family's much beloved pets August, Mojo, Summerdale and PhilPutz.
Norman was born in Prince Rupert, and moved to Vancouver Island just before his 8th birthday. He was blessed to grow up on the beaches of Saltair, where he developed his lifelong passion for sailing. Norm was proud of the boat he built, the Stormin', and was known for his ability to extract every last breath of propulsion from the wind.
Norman had a wicked sense of humour, and could always point out the absurd, even in the grimmest situations. He was chatty and articulate, and laughter was the grace note in almost all conversations with him. He loved music, with a profound appreciation for diverse bands and genres. He was also a highly skilled builder who delighted in the feel, smell and potential in wood.
Norman fully lived and truly loved his life. Walking the dogs along the beach with Marilyn, observing wind and waves, poking at the flotsam and jetsam remained a lifelong pleasure.
There is no getting around the fact that it was tough sailing over impossibly rough seas for Norman at the end of his life. His family is grateful that Marilyn was by his side throughout, navigating the medical system, advocating for him, and supporting him with her unswerving love and loyalty. She truly was the epitome of devotion.
Norman is sailing the seas of the great Unknown now, enjoying a beer and a laugh about the silliness of everything. He will be dearly missed by those whose lives he touched, and especially Marilyn, Melanie and Dan.
A celebration of Norman's life will be held August 25, 2019 in the meeting room at the Ladysmith Maritime Community Marina, from 1 - 4 pm.

"Oh the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see,
Believe me.
Sailing takes me away to where I've always heard it could be,
Just a dream and the wind to carry me,
And soon I will be free."

- Christopher Cross, "Sailing"