Norman Francis Puhl
December 2, 1949 - October 28, 2022
The family of Norm Puhl are profoundly saddened to announce his passing peacefully at home on Friday, October 28, 2022. Norm will be deeply missed by his soulmate, best friend and love of his life for 51 years, Sharon, and by his two sons Kyle (Rebecca) and Corbin (Gail) and grandchildren Jocelyn, Alex, Gavin, and Cameron, whom he was affectionately known as Papa. Norm is also survived by his brother Darvin and sister Brenda, with whom he shared a close bond. Norm was known by all who knew him for his kindness, fairness, generosity, and leadership.
Norm was born in Melville, Saskatchewan into a farming family where he learned how to drive a tractor at an early age. After high school, he attended the College of Pharmacy at the University of Saskatchewan, where he met Sharon in the fall of 1970. He said it was ‘love at first sight’ and they married the following summer in Estevan, Saskatchewan while still in school.
After graduating from university, Norm and Sharon started their careers with Big V Pharmacies in Windsor, Ontario in 1973. At that time, he never imagined that one day he would succeed Tony Crncich as President and CEO of the company in 1983. Carrying on the values Tony established, Norm was a family man, both at home and in the way he ran Big V. After the sale of Big V to Shoppers Drug Mart in 1996, Norm continued working in corporate retail pharmacy becoming President of Rexall Pharma Plus in 1998 until his retirement in 2004.
After retirement, Norm enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, golfing, relaxing at the family’s lake cottage in the summer, and travelling around the world. He also served on the Robarts Research Council, and boards of Trudell Medical and TSC Stores.
Norm will be most remembered for always putting his family first. Loved and revered by his extended family and friends, our loss is shared by many. At Norm’s request, a private family service will be held at a later date. Our family would like to thank Dr. Kim, Dr. Sparrow, and Dr. Tang at London Health Sciences Centre, and the Palliative Care Team, who have supported us during his short and sudden illness.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Norm’s memory may make a donation to London Health Sciences Foundation, directed to the Byron Family Medical Centre.
Lastly, Norm thanks everyone for being an Amazing Part of his Life!
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Dear Sharon, I was deeply saddened to read about Norm's passing in the U of S Alumni Magazine. As a friend from Melville, I had the privilege to know him and then live with him for several years at the U of S in the early 70's. I have great memories of those university days with Norm, as well as meeting you for the first time. Although we haven't been able to stay in touch over the years, I will always remember Norm as a very passionate, thoughtful and kind person, even when having to eat "Kraft Dinner" five times a week because we were just poor students. On behalf of Jane and I in Regina, please accept our condolences to you and your family on this sad occasion.
We were very saddened to hear of Norm's passing. We have very fond memories of "the good ole Big V days" with Norm whenever he was down in the Windsor area, always greeting us with that warm, friendly smile. Sending sincerest condolences to Sharon and his family, as well as his friends and colleagues.
Sharon, Deepest condolences on your loss. Norm's passing brought back old memories from University days over 50 years ago. Those years have passed way too quickly, and he has gone way too soon. Hope to see you at the class reunion next year.
Dear Sharon and family. Please accept our deepest condolences and sympathy on your loss. Stephen and Bonnie Haugen.
Dear Jocelyn, Gavin and Family, I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your Papa. He was always so proud of you both, and was such a generous supporter of Matthews Hall. Thinking of you, Mrs. Jen McKay
Sharon & Family We were so sorry to receive the news of Norm’s passing. Your family is in our thoughts constantly. We were lifelong friends growing up in Melville Sask and continued our friendship throughout the years. Although we lived on opposite ends of the Country we got together frequently and had many memorable family events. Norm had character and integrity like no other and had a deep love of family. Norm was easy to like. Great friendships never die! Dave & Heather Jeroski and Family.
A donation has been made to London Health Sciences.
Dear Sharon and family, We were shocked to hear of Norm's passing, Please accept our sincerest condolences. Thankfully Bernie and I were able to chat with you and Norm at Wilf's retirement party, after not seeing either of you for many years. It was like we never missed a beat. We reminisced about the Big V days, parties at your home and you guys attending our wedding in 1978. That is just the way Norm and yourself handled things. Everything was done first class. You and Norm are very special people. I am so glad Norm hired me in 1978 and allowed me to begin my career with Big V. I know Norm is now in a special place and will continue to do special things.
Dear Sharon and family, I have many great memories of my Big V days and will always remember Norm as a kind and caring leader. He greeted everyone with a smile and made everyone feel welcome. We are so sorry for your loss!
Sharon and family; We are shocked by Norm's passing. We extend our deepest sympathies to your family. Norm was such a good neighbour - always pleasant to talk to and we are sure that your memories will sustain you in this time of loss.
Corbin, I am deeply saddened to hear of your dads passing. He was truly one of the nicest guys I ever had the pleasure to knowing. I can remember when we were all kids and he bought us those Big V curling jackets. That was one of the coolest things ever! Many fond memories of your Dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
A donation has been made to London Health Sciences Foundation - Byron Family Medical Centre. Message from the donator: So, so sorry to hear about Norm's passing. Hoping this donation will help others as a tribute to Norm's own generosity and giving spirit. My deepest condolences Janine Gyug
So very hard to believe when we received the sad news of Norm’s passing. He certainly was a very kind and caring gentleman. We only had the privilege of knowing Norm and his wife Sharon and some of their family for the past eight years since he welcomed us into our very caring LFP family up north in Ahmic Harbour. He told us we had made a great decision on purchasing our cottage for our whole family to enjoy our summers there. We truly do love our little piece of paradise. Norm will be greatly missed throughout our park. Sharon and family remember all the good times you had with this very special man. He truly was a family oriented guy. May you all find comfort in knowing he is in great hands. Rest In Peace Norm.
Dear Sharon, Our deepest sympathy to you and your family at this very sad time. We were so saddened by the news of Norm’s passing. Hopefully those of us who admired him so much will pay tribute to him by following his example of how to live life with kindness and humility. He will be greatly missed.
My sympathy and thoughts are with you Sharon, and family. I enjoyed all my interactions with Norm during and after his time on the Trudell Board. He was wise, humble and kind. I remember his eyes would always light up speaking of the Puhl family. Condolences from Rhonda and I Jim
I am a lucky sister to have had two of the most amazing brothers ever! It hurts my heart to think of life without you Norm. Me and my family take comfort in having Sharon, Kyle, Corbin and their families in our lives.
Sharon, I am so sorry to receive such news, please know my thoughts are with you and your family in these trying days, be strong, and I know you will for your sons Sincerely Helen
A donation has been made to London Health Sciences Foundation. Message from the donator: Sharon, my heartfelt thoughts are with you and your family as you pass through this time of sorrow. The loss of your beloved Norm is a sorrowful loss for you all. I feel blessed to have known Norm. He was a wonderful boss and friend. Please know that you are in my thoughts, and I wish your family all the comfort you need during this difficult time.
A donation has been made to Byron Family Medical Centre (LHSF). Message from the donator: Dear Sharon and family, It is with great sorrow that I heard the news of Norm's passing. Norm was a great friend and mentor to me while at Big V as well as when we both moved to Shoppers and Pharma Plus. I have highly valued my friendship with Norm and will miss him. I was so glad to see him on 2 recent occasions. His smile and friendly conversations always brought a smile to my face. My deepest condolences to you and your family. Kim and Susan Milburn and family
We only new Norm briefly, but it only took that long to feel that he was a very kind soul. He was very present when we met him, and his huge and generous smile showed how much he loved his wife, my friend from high school, Sharon. There are few people in life that have such presence. I am sure that his kindness and generosity and just all-around good spirit will carry on through his family. We are so sorry for their loss.
Sharon, Corbin and family, our deepest condolences on your loss. We were all shocked and saddened to hear of Norm’s passing. Norm was a gentleman, always kind with a smile on his face. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Arturo, Mildred and family.
A donation has been made to London Health Sciences Foundation - Byron Family Medical Centre. Message from the donator: Dear Sharon and beautiful family, thinking of you and holding close the fun-loving memories. With love, Andrew, Laura and family.
It was always a team effort at Big V, but during my tenure, he was our leader. His passion flowed thru everyone, as well as his fairness , commitment to customer service, and down to earth friendly approach with every single person in our great company. My condolences to the family.
A donation has been made to Cancer Program. Message from the donator: Corbin, We are so sorry for the loss of your Dad. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
Dear Sharon and family We were both shocked and saddened to hear of Norm’s passing. Norm was such a great leader and helped create the Big V culture of caring for each other and our patients, hard work and fun. We were both privileged to work with Norm and benefited greatly from his leadership. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Steve and Rita Winn
Sharon my condolences to you and the family. I met Norm when he transferred into our pharmacy class at U of S. I remember the day he asked me who is that girl sitting in front of us. It of course was you. I know you and the family will miss him immensely. He always had a great smile and a kind word. Hugs my friend.
Sharon and family, I am deeply saddened to hear of Norm’s passing. I remember the ski trips we all took together with the Davys. Norm was a kind and gentle man who always took the time for a warm hello and a brief chat. It is a great loss for everyone who knew him.
Sharon, boys and your families. I'm crushed by the news of Norm's passing. As I think you know, my Dad was an only child. Mahlon became his brother early on, and Norm was the little brother they never had. My Dad couldn't have felt luckier then to find Norm to pass the Big V torch to. My Mom and Dad loved you both very much. As my Dad aged and became sick, and Mom's illness progressed, you were both always there, never a question asked. That's family, that was Big V. Sharon, thanks for sharing Norm with us. He gave all of us his everything. Rob, Ben and I always most enjoyed getting a surprising pairing with Norm for the special days of Men's league at The Hunt. All of us Crnciches will miss Norm very much. Just wondering who's the boss up there:) I'm sure they're just loving brothers having a scotch and continuing to watch over all of us. Our prayers are with you all at this time. Much love, Tony Jr.
My condolences to the family!
Sharon and family, I was deeply saddened to learn of Norm’s passing. Leaders with his dedication, commitment and integrity are very, very rare - he was the real deal. I was very privileged to have been a part of the Big V family. My sincere condolences on your loss.
A huge loss for all those who were fortunate enough to have known this gentleman. Always gracious and quick to a smile. It was clear that his family was his everything. May he rest in peace.
A donation has been made.
Mike and I are so shocked and very sad to hear about Norm passing away . We can not believe it . What a wonderful Man always had a smile and always had time to say hello . A friendly guy from the Prairies!!!! Sharon we are thinking of you and your family . Our thoughts and prayers to you all . Good Bless .
Will miss Norm in the seniors league and playing with him in the inter club matches
Sharon and family, our deepest sympathies to all. Norm was an inspiration to many and will be truly missed. As part of the LFP Family please know you are in our thoughts as you find strength together to manage this very difficult time. Colleen and Roger Sicard
Our sincerest condolences to the entire family - our hearts are tremendously saddened for this great loss. There are so many positive words to describe this wonderful man! Our LFP community has taken a big hit - his dedication, professionalism and knowledge will never be matched - he will be missed dearly! Wishing you all strength at this difficult time - embrace all the love and support that surrounds you . May the happy stories and memories shared with you give you some comfort ❤️
Heartfelt condolences to Sharon and family. We saw the lighter side of Norm at the Hunt Club and liked him a lot. He was very good at having fun, seemed to always have a smile on his face and quick with a kind word of greeting. Summers won't be the same without him.
Sharon, Corbin and family, Donna and I were deeply saddened to learn of Norm’s unexpected passing. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Norm, a true gentleman, enriched the lives of everyone he met. He will be sorely missed. Hugs, Donna and Bob
This is indeed sad news. Norm will be missed. Our thoughts are with Sharon the family.
To Norm’s family - so very sorry for this huge loss. I worked at Big V in my twenties and met him several times at Langford. Our daughter was born while I was the FSM at Smith Graham, and I will always remember him sending flowers after her birth. He always greeted me with a warm smile and kind words. My heartfelt condolences
Norm was always a gentleman, gracious in his greetings and possessed of a sense of humor and friendly demeanor that always made you feel welcome. My sincere condolences to his family, friends and those who loved him.
Sharon and family, we were shocked and saddened to hear of Norm’s sudden passing. Gone way too soon, Norm was an outstanding gentleman and a true leader. Intuitive, thoughtful, generous and caring. Anyone was truly blessed to have known him. His love will continue to live on in each of you. Our hearts are broken for all of you. Thank you Norm for being an amazing part of our lives and so many others. You will be forever missed. Patti and Doug Landry
Sharon and family. I was shocked and saddened when I heard of Norm passing. He was such a great person and neighbour. He was always willing to take the time to talk, share his thoughts and wisdom on whatever topic we discussed from his recent various routes to get a long or short walk in to his take on something going on locally. He gave my son the opportunity to earn some money doing work for him at a young age and he was very gracious in his time talking with him and passing on words of wisdom from a man who was so successful at everything he did. My son often references his chats with Norm and they will be with him forever. He will be missed… my family’s thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
To Sharon and Norm's family - so very sorry for your loss. Norm was a wonderful man and a true friend. Very sad to loose such a great guy so young.
Sharon and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry for the loss of Norm. He was a wonderful individual and was taken far too soon.
Dear Sharon and family, we are shocked and so very sad to hear about Norm. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Sharon, Kyle ,Corbin and family, what a shock to have received this news. Please know that Jay and I are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. Norm was always such a kind, compassionate, fun loving, fair and trust worthy boss and friend. You were so fortunate to have had those wonderful 51 years together and have such a close family. Our hearts go out to you. Love, Jay and Fran
Kathy and I are in total disbelief that one of the finest and most congenial men we have known has passed away. Norm was truly a kind individual who exhibited leadership qualities that very few people possess. We will miss Norm dearly and wish his family peace knowing that he is in God's hands.
Sharon and family. We are so sorry to hear of Norms passing. I remember when you and Norm joined Big V - not too long after I started. Norm was always a wonderful person to work with. and we feel so grateful to have been such an integral part of the Big V family
A donation has been made to Byron Family Medical Centre. Message from the donator: To the Puhl Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Everything Norm did, he did with unmatched kindness, patience, thoughtfulness, and professionalism. He touched the lives of everyone at LFP in some way. Family, friends, and neighbours were all better off with him around. With his passing, we lose a great man with a wealth of knowledge and the cadence for sharing it. His absence will be felt by all of us in the LFP family.
Sharon, Kyle, Corbin and families. So sorry for your loss. Norm was one of the nicest people we have ever known. Thinking of you all at this very sad time.
Sharon, Kyle, Corbin and family. I am so saddened to hear of Norm's passing. He was a special man who had a great impact on many people, including myself. His was a life cut short but well lived. My thoughts are with you all as you deal with this loss.
Dear Sharon and the Puhl family, I’m so saddened and shocked to hear of Norm’s passing. He sure set the bar high as a kind, wise and patient man willing to give guidance and advice. He will be truly missed by so many. Thank you for sharing Norm with us.
Dear Sharon and family. So sorry for Norms passing. He was a great neighbour ! He certainly will be missed and was a very special person! Love to your family at this very sad time. Kerri
A donation has been made to Byron family medicine centre. Message from the donator: God bless
Corbin, so sorry for the loss of your Dad. We are praying and thinking of your family during this very difficult times. Your Dad will be missed !
Sharon and all the Puhl family, Words cannot begin to express my sorrow to you for the passing of your beloved Norm. He meant a lot to many people. His was consistent in his kindness, caring and thoughtfulness to all. We will always have the memories of the many shared Thanksgiving pot luck dinners which progressed to more formal dinner parties, the travel and just a shared glass of wine. He will never be forgotten. Thank you for being a friend.
Dear Sharon and Family, I can't begin to tell you how sad I was to hear of Norm's passing. Always there for family - from when he was very young - he actually was someone who made the world a "better place". Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love Sandra and Doug
Dear Sharon and family. I am so sorry to hear about Norms passing. I still remember my dad's excitement when he flew to meet you and Norm in Saskatchewan. You both were a dinner time discussion many times during those Big V years. My dad, loved and respected Norm throughout the years. I want you to know how much we appreciated the time you both spent with my mom and dad. Norm was by his side as a friend until the end.. He was a wonderful man. The world has lost a good one Sharon. Love All Ways, Anne Mariexo
Sharon, Kyle, Corbin and families, We are so very sorry to hear of Norm’s passing, we are still in disbelief. We have had so many fine times together over the last 50 years and will miss his company very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Ben & Deb
Sharon and family. We are saddened beyond words to learn of Norm’s passing. I first met Norm at the College of Pharmacy at the UofS over 50 years ago and we kept up our friendship after we both moved to SW Ontario. The Duffers’ Golf Weekend has been an annual event for over 45 years for a group of UofS pharmacy alumni and Norm always played a big part in making sure it continued. Our deepest condolences to family and friends
I’m so very sorry for your loss & am sending my condolences to family & friends.
Hi Norm- thinking deeply about you, and with so much love for you all today, as you make this change to the spiritual plane….we are so blessed to have had you in our lives, and want you to know how much your passing leaves a hole in our hearts forever 😞💕♥️ I know GGma and GGpa are waiting to receive you, please send our love to them, and I pray for you to have a peaceful transition, knowing we will be here to support your family in the years to come (especially auntie sharon)♥️💕🌺 With so much love, carrie john and kids ♥️♥️♥️♥️ We are all so devastated and sad but we are so grateful we have had the time with you that we did. Thank you for being such a kind and generous uncle and mentor. John and I have been reflecting on your speech at our wedding, and have had your ppf tribute on our mantle always as a reminder.♥️😞 Please know we love you and are thinking of you always, and will be reaching out to Sharon, Kyle and Corbin when they will need it most. Love you always, Carrie, john, rachel courtney, Connor and lauren ♥️♥️😍😍
Norm -- Thank you for everything you did for our family. Words don’t express how much that meant to us and I hope you knew how much you meant to our family. You were a role model to all of us with your selflessness, patience and kindness. Our hearts go out to Sharon and the Puhl Family – Norm will be dearly missed and LFP just won’t be the same without him.
Sharon, Corbin, Gail, Gavin and Jocelyn . I am so very sorry for your incredible loss. I know Norm as a true gentleman, a great mind, a kind man who loved his family deeply. I saw him at every matthews hall performance and every Christmas at mass. I was lucky to see him at the cottage and at Mercedes’ event a couple years ago. He will be greatly missed as a pillar of the community and true family man. I know he is flying high and know that the love bond never dies. God bless.
We are so sorry. Our hearts go out to all. The three of us have known the Puhls our whole lives. We enjoyed our summers up North together. Three generations of Scott's and Puhls. We always seen Norm as a intellect, kind caring person. He will be missed by all of us. Our hearts go out to the whole family
We are so sorry to hear of Norm’s passing, he truly was a special man. Always made you feel like family, remembering our times with our parents in the Big V days. Our thoughts and prayers to Sharon and family . He truly will be missed.
Norm was our long time friend for over 42 years ,what a classic guy, always there to give good advice ,we spent many Ski and summer vacations with him and his family ,Sharon out thoughts and prayers are with you and your family will be sadly missed
Brother you were always there for everyone. One the most giving people and we feel blessed to have shared so many adventures together. You always put family first a true legacy. We love you so much.
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Sharon and family, Deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Norm's passing. I have thought of Norm often since we first met 29 years ago as new Saskatchewan pharmacists in Ontario, so thrilled to be hired by Big V and work under Norm's passionate, kind, and genuine leadership. I still mention Norm to this day when referencing positive work culture, which was special at Big V. Norm was a wonderful person, always taking the time for people and a true role model. What a blessing and comfort he was for us, having taken the same career path moving from Saskatchewan to Ontario at the start of our careers. Norm left a lasting impression on us and we will never forget him.
~ Jonathan and Margie Kiesman