November 28, 1928 - January 2, 2021
We are saddened to announce the passing of our mother, grandmother and GiGi on Saturday January 2, 2021, aged 92, in Victoria.
Norah was born in Victoria to Thomas and Dorothy Smith on November 28, 1928. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years Ralph (2011), her daughter Joan (2008), her brothers Kenneth (2013) and wife Ann (2017) and Richard (2018).
She is survived by her sons David (Gillian) of Mill Bay B.C., Kevin (Barbara) of Wilmington Delaware; her grandchildren and great- grandchildren: Frazer (Liesl) and Keira and Garrett of Lake Country B.C., Megan (Andrew) and Adriana and Dimitri of Sydney Australia, Ian (Lisa) and Henry and Charles of Calgary AB., Adam, Douglas and Vanessa of Wilmington Delaware. Her sister in law Vera of Calgary AB., and a number of nieces and nephews across the country.
Norah grew up in Victoria and enjoyed an active life. She developed a close network of friends from the class of '46 from Vic High who will miss their annual luncheons with her: Jean, Beverly, Bindo, Irene and Margaret. Norah was a skilled roller skater and also joined the Army Cadets and the St. John's Ambulance Brigade where she distinguished herself by earning the highest award and first ever presented in Canada, the Grand Prior's Badge.
After finishing school Norah took a position as a nurses aide at the Queen Alexandra Solarium in Mill Bay. It was here she first met her future husband Ralph and began a new chapter in her life as a military wife and mother. The family was posted to Calgary, Barrie, back to Calgary, Penhold, England U.K. , Gimli, Winnipeg and Comox. Norah ensured her family was well settled in each location and then volunteered her time in each community.
Upon Ralph's retirement from the Air Force, they returned to Mill Bay. Norah returned to classes where she formalized her interest in early childhood development. She practiced her ideas in day care centres in Duncan, and was acknowledged for her efforts in 1979 by receiving a "Year of the Child and Family Achievement Award" for her pioneering work with integrating day care services.
Norah was a compassionate, caring and kind woman who will not only be missed by her family, but also those whose paths she crossed in life.
The family would like to acknowledge the kindness shown to Norah by the 5th floor staff at the Selkirk Seniors Home. At Norah's request there will be no funeral service. The far-flung family will hold a celebration when circumstances permit. In lieu of flowers, Norah was a strong supporter of the Clements Society in Duncan and the Mill Bay food Bank.