Obituary of Norman Frank Thomas

December 11, 1936 - February 10, 2024

Norman Thomas, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the age of 87 in Calgary, Alberta.

Norm was born on December 11, 1936, in Edmonton, AB. He grew up on the family farm in Red Water, AB. At the age of eighteen, he and his brother Al set out to work in the oil patch. Norm married Audrey, March 26, 1956, in Settler, AB. They spent the early years of their marriage traveling and working on the oil rigs. Together, Norm and Audrey had three children, Kenneth, Kelly, and Karen. In 1967, the family settled in Calgary, AB, while Norm continued traveling for his job, working for several different companies. He later began working in the office as a salesman, and ended his rewarding career in November 1999, working for Weatherford. Norm was honoured in April 2014 for 60 years of service for his work with the Calgary Oilfield Technical Society.

He then became a dedicated member of the Alberta 55 Plus organization, where he volunteered as an Activity Coordinator for cribbage and shuffleboard events. Norm was also a committed member of Canadian Blood Services and in September 2015, Norm travelled to Ottawa to be recognized as an “Honoured Donor” by the Canadian Blood Services for 500 hours of volunteer service, as well as over 900 donations. He also volunteered his time at various walks, runs, casinos, fundraisers, and the recycling program at his condominium complex.

He enjoyed watching and playing various sports, including hockey, baseball, bowling, and curling. He was an avid fan of the Calgary Flames and would never miss a game. Norm loved participating in card games with his friends and family, playing Euchre and Military Whist at the Thorncliffe Greenview Association every Monday and Friday.

Norm will be lovingly remembered by his children, Ken, Kelly (Cathy), and Karen (Dan); grandchildren, Carie, Jeff, Krista and Wes; and great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Theo and Cohen. He is also survived by his brother, Alvin, sisters, Marilyn and Zelda, as well as numerous extended family members and friends. Norm was predeceased by his wife Audrey, parents, Ernest and Audrey, and his brother Wayne.

Norm will be most remembered for his passion for life, positivity, sense of humour, and his dedication to helping others in the community. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Norm’s Life will be held at the Thorncliffe Greenview Community Association (Thorncliffe Room, 5600 Centre St. N.) on Monday, February 26, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Canadian Blood Services (donate a pint in Norm’s honour).

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Norman’s family here.

In living memory of Norm Thomas, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.