Norman Howard Parry

May 15, 1954 - May 14, 2023
In loving memory ~
Norm passed away surrounded by love in the early morning of May 14. Norm was diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer and, after demonstrating never-ending positivity during his treatment, succumbed to pneumonia that was unresponsive to treatments. He remained strong, was free from suffering, and demonstrated effortless positivity throughout his journey.
Norm was born the only son of four girls. He was the center of the family and "the number one son". Being in a military family, Norm grew up having a sense of belonging, independence, integrity, fun, adventure, and freedom. He was always a team player favouring badminton, hockey, baseball, school band, cycling, and adventuring with friends. During high school in Ottawa, he developed a love of nature which set him on a path for the rest of his life. Norm attended the University of Alberta, winning beard-growing competitions, making friends, and eventually graduating with a bachelor's degree in forestry. After university, and before starting his career, Norm spent several foundational years travelling the world. He often reminisced about these times as they set the groundwork for his life philosophy and way of being. Upon returning to Canada, he settled in British Columbia with his new wife Kathleen, with whom he spent 38 years. Norm spent 35+ years in public service as a Professional Forester. Norm's career progressed from working in the field, laying out logging plots, to working as a Timber Sales Manager. His passion for his career was obvious, but it was never at the expense of his family. Norm was a dedicated, active, and inspiring father of three sons. He shared his belief systems and passion for life with his sons in a way that continues to show in their lives to this day. Norm was endlessly active in the community, volunteering with countless organizations. In his retirement, Norm played a large role in building up Terrace Community Foundations.
Norm had many passions. One could often find him camping, hiking, skiing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and just generally exploring. His love of the outdoors could only be matched by his love of music. Norm played guitar throughout his life and in his later years joined a group that played music regularly. Anyone who has met Norm knows that he had mastered the art of storytelling. His large friend groups are a testament to his genuine positivity and compassion for others.
Norm is survived by his wife, Kathleen, and sons, Colin, Glen, and Shawn, as well as his sisters, Phylis Grover, Sheila Parry, Gwen Parry, Maureen Parry, and many beloved nieces and nephews. In the last of his years, Norm developed a strong bond with Jeanie Brummitt who filled a special role in his life. Norm's death is preceded by his father, Frank Parry and mother, Kathleen Parry.
A celebration of life will be held at the REM Lee Theatre on May 21 at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Norm has requested that donations be given to the Terrace Community Foundation. A fund has been created with the name "Norm Parry's Visionary Fund". To add to this fund, please donate to the Terrace Community Foundation fund with a comment that you would like to contribute to Norm's specific fund. To donate online visit: www.terracecommunityfoundation.com/donate-now