Norman ‘Norm’ Edward Robert Foster
March 16, 2021
October, 1936 – March, 2021
Passed away peacefully, at Henley Place on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, in his 85th year. Norm leaves behind his devoted wife of 59 years, Joanne (née Healey). Loving father to Linda (Scott), and Brenda (Bob). Amazing Grandpa to Tim (Lexie), Kevin, Jeffrey (Sydney), and Liam. Great-Grandpa to Aurora. Predeceased by his parents George and Edwidge Foster, formerly of Ottawa; his sister, Pearl; and brothers, Art and Joe. Norm will also be lovingly remembered by his sisters, Jeanette and Connie, and their families, as well as all members of the Healey family. There will be a private family service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation in memory of Norm to the United Way Elgin Middlesex or Mission Services of London. The Foster family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Henley Place, specifically Springbank Unit for their exemplary care and compassion. Norm was a unique individual and we are so proud to call him our own. He was dedicated to helping and supporting those around him. He will be missed, and we shall endeavour to live as he has taught us – “One day at a time.”
Leave a tribute for Norman ‘Norm’ Edward Robert Foster
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(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to United Way Elgin Middlesex)
(Donated to United Way Elgin Middlesex)
Shortly after meeting Norm in 2009, he did something that introduced me to his character. We hadn't crossed paths for a few weeks and one day, the phone rang and it was Norm. He was giving me a call to see if I was doing okay. I realized at that moment that the rough, tough, storytelling hockey player had a genuine concern for others. Thanks Norm, for caring. I am sure you will have some stories stored up when we meet again.
I worked with Norm for a few years. He would stop by my desk every now and then to visit with me. For some reason I think he always had a toothpick in his mouth but my memory could be wrong lol. He was very interesting and funny. Also very thoughtful and a sharp dressed man. I admired him for how long he had been sober for. He was always on his way to a meeting. He played golf with my grandfather which I thought was cool too. Norm was special to me and I'll miss him â¤ï¸
I knew Norm from high school days in Toronto.....he, at St Mike's and me, At St. Joe's. We spent many fun times together at the Cottage Restaurant With the gang. Norm was always a gentleman, but down to earth and a good friend. My sincere condolences to all the family. I'm sure that Norm is enjoying a game of hockey with some of the guys. God bless.
What a brilliant picture of a great man.... I Loved Norm Foster
Dear Joanne My heart is with you today as you have been my dear best manager at Bell and always chatting about Norm your great hubby
I've known Norm for slightly over twenty years and he has been inspirational for me. I miss him and pray that I never forget him nor his message.
Norm will always have a special place in my heart. He was so kind to me when my husband passed away in 1987. Gave me great advice about selling the car and buying a new one. My very deepest sympathies to Joanne and his family..
Dear Fosters, I was very moved to hear of Mr. Foster's peaceful passing last week. It sounds like he had an ideal ending to a wonderful and complete life. He was someone who took care of those he loved, and it seems like this was the final gift, to know he departed peacefully after 85 years lived. I knew Mr. Foster when I was a teenager and he was a much younger man. He was easy to talk to and entertaining. He also demonstrated his integrity, and I was aware of how much effort he put into helping those in need. His extreme passion for golfing was everywhere!! Winter and summer, indoors and outdoors. Walking the dog Jenny all the time. Handing out advice liberally...."If I tell you the moon is made of cheese....YOU get the crackers!!" Rest in peace dear Norman. You have earned it.
Many,many long conversations, all at FCN, over the last 20 years. Talking to Norm was like having your IQ tested. Having an opinion was meaningless unless you could support it with facts, logic and reason. His life experiences were inspirational. His love of family great. I have missed him the last couple of years, Larry MacLean keeping me updated. I will think about him when I find myself at the driving range, early evening, wishing he was there itching to discuss politics, world affairs, and the state of life.
We have been friends for over 65 years, since our days at St. Michaels. He was fun to be with and he always had an interesting story or two or maybe more to tell in his own unique way. We played golf together numerous times and I was not able to beat him even once, even though I did not really follow the rules of golf religiously, like Norm. He was a great teammate (St.Mikes and Windsor) someone you could always depend on in any situation, but he was an even better friend. I will miss him. My sympathy to Joanne and the Foster family.
Uncle Norm was a character. I remember him as funny, fun and full of life. I know that he helped many people and I have heard many stories about his support and dedication for people who were struggling. My thoughts are with Aunt Joanne and cousins Brenda, Linda and their families at this difficult time of loss. All my love, Kathryn
How difficult it is to say farewell to a person who you admire so much. "Big Norm" was larger than life, wise beyond his years and was a huge influence on my life. He was always there to help when help was needed, even if you didn't know you needed that help. Norm was a very witty individual who could command a room with his presence and his unsurpassed ability to tell a "Story". Non-judgmental and always willing to give someone a second chance, his actions and words have helped many through tough times. I will miss him terribly, but will remember him fondly. He lives on in all of those who he touched. Norm Foster will now hold "Court" in another dimension and be their "Greatest Shuttle Driver Ever Known". My sincere condolences to Joanne, Brenda, Linda, Tim, Kevin, Jeffrey, Liam and all of the Foster Family. May you find comfort by remembering all of the great things he has done for so many. It is now Norm's time to rest. To my mentor and a great man who I considered and loved as a father, Keep your stick on the ice and head up.
His great granddaughter is already showing wonderful traits of Norm: strength, determination, love, athleticism, musicality, and humour! It was an honour to have met Norm, to know of the depth of his accomplishments within the context of his beautiful family. Our hearts are with Joanne, and with Joanne and Norm's extended family.
Thank you, Larry. I loved him so much too. I just want people to know that whenever I needed my Dad he was there, he never let me down, not once. No questions, no judgement, just wisdom. He had such a large presence and I feel it still and always will. These last three years when he needed me, it was my honour and privilege to care for him. I miss him so much already, it hurts. Dad, give a sign from time to time to let us know all is well. May God bless and keep you until we meet again, Brenda Anne
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Norm and I shared a great many laughs over the years as we owned the same wicked sense of humor. He was a very charismatic and compassionate man, and a truer friend you would be hard pressed to find. One of his most endearing qualities was his love and total respect for his loving wife Joanne He always beamed with love and pride when he spoke of his girls and his most cherished grandchildren. Through his kindness and his anytime availability, Norm was always there to lend a helping hand to many along the way who were struggling, and helped them turn their lives around. Truly a one of a kind and unique personality. Go rest high on the mountain my friend, and God Bless.
~ Larry MacLean