I was sorry to hear of the passing of my friend Don.

I first met Don when I was an Air Cadet in 1983; he was a tow pilot with the Pacific Region Gliding School. He was promoted to Major and assumed command of the school in 1984 and was instrumental in changes that aligned Pacific Region with the other schools across Canada. I became a Glider Pilot Instructor in 1985 and got to know him better.

Our path separated in 1986 when I left the program to go to aviation college however we were reunited later when I started working on a book about the history of the towplanes in the Air Cadet Gliding Program. Don was a great contributor to the book (with photos and stories) and I also learned of his trails and tribulations of being the Commanding Officer of the school. We shared a lot of e-mails (he couldn't take calls because of hearing loss) and we became close.

Don was a good man who made a difference; sometimes he was not credited enough for the changes he made.

I'll miss you Colonel!

Gord and entire Norrie family

So sorry to hear about your dad's passing.

Really enjoyed talking with him back in the day,and a highlight was our golf run out to the Island when we stayed with Don and Ruby.

My condolences to you all.

Mike Yarrow

I was saddened to hear of Don’s passing. He has had a remarkable life and his presence brought light and joy into many lives. Through his philanthropy in our local museum/cultural centre, he has left an indelible mark in the community of La Macaza, Quebec where he was posted during the Cold War. On behalf of the Maison de la culture de La Macaza, I extend my deepest sympathies to Don’s family and friends.

Sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends.

Mr. Norrie was a wonderful person and a great friend to my dad for over 60 years.