EDWARDS , Norman Wesley Edwards

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a remarkable man Norman Wesley Edwards, a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Military Veteran, and pillar of his community. He leaves behind a legacy built on love, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to others.

A husband devoted to his life-long love, Kay and loving father to five children and their spouses—Stephen (Sandra), Richard (Monica), Michael (Beth), Christine (Ian Whitecross), and Valerie (Pierre Veilleux), he was the proud grandfather of 11 grandchildren and 14 (with one more on the way) great-grandchildren. He “brought life to 30 people,” instilling kindness, hard work, and love, his family was his greatest pride.

In his early years, he worked tirelessly, holding three jobs at once, so his beloved wife could stay home to raise their children. He was a man of deep commitment, whether volunteering in the local hockey and baseball associations, serving with the Rotary Club and Knights of Columbus, or dedicating countless hours to his church. Predeceased by his loving wife Kay, and two of his children, Stephen and Valerie, were losses that marked him deeply, yet these lead him to his most profound and impactful work with hospice care. Norm was instrumental in helping to establish the Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care at St Francis’ Memorial Hospital in Barry’s Bay, becoming one of the very first trained volunteers, believing wholeheartedly that no one should die alone. It wasn’t just a role to Norm — it was his vocation.

A true pioneer, he was among the first to make his land in Golden Lake on Hawkins Road a permanent residence, embracing the beauty of the land and the peace it brought to him and our entire family.

He lived by the motto “Service before self,” a principle he instilled in his family and demonstrated daily through kindness, humility, and an open heart. His wisdom, whit, humor, and unwavering love will be deeply missed, but his lessons remain: Cherish your family. Speak with kindness. Solve problems together. And above all, leave the world better than you found it.

As we honor his memory, we find solace in these words, which mirror the life he lived:
“To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

A celebration of his life will be held Friday July 18 at 11 am at St Andrew’s Church in Killaloe. Visitations will be 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm Thursday July 17 at Zohr Family Funeral Home, Killaloe.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care, an organization close to his heart.

Rest in peace, Norman/Dad/Poppy. Your legacy lives on in all of us.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Zohr Family Funeral Home.