It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Norman Carmichael, on October 6, 2026, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, following complications from a stroke suffered after a fall while visiting with a friend. He was just days shy of his 86th birthday.
Norm was born on October 15, 1940, in Glasgow, Scotland, the beloved son of the late Robert Blair Carmichael and Norah Wilson. He was the youngest of four brothers and was predeceased by his siblings James Edward Carmichael, Robert Carmichael, and Jack Carmichael. As the last surviving member of his generation of the Carmichael family, Norm carried with him a deep connection to both his family and his Scottish roots throughout his life.
On September 7, 1964, Norm immigrated to Canada in search of new opportunities and a brighter future. Leaving behind his family, friends, and the only home he had ever known was a courageous step, and one that would ultimately lead to a fulfilling life built on hard work, family, friendship, and love.
Norm began his career as a tailor’s cutter before moving into managing warehouse operations for Loeb. Norm worked in telecommunications until retirement. Not content to sit still, retirement gave him the opportunity to follow one of his greatest passions: dogs. Combining his love of animals with his entrepreneurial spirit, he founded Nuleash, a dog-walking business that became a familiar and trusted fixture throughout the Liverpool neighbourhood of Pickering. Norm made many friends through the dog-walking business and not just the furry ones on four legs.
Norm’s greatest joy, however, was his family.
His love story with his wife Susan began at a house party. Susan was enjoying the music and dancing while an energetic young Scottish fellow kept changing the music. Determined to put a stop to it, she confronted the culprit, only to discover that Norm was immediately smitten. Through charm, persistence, and a good measure of determination, he eventually convinced her to agree to a date. That chance encounter sparked a partnership that would span sixty years.
Norm and Susan (née Corpe) were married on October 15, 1966, and together built a loving home filled with laughter, resilience, friendship, and unwavering devotion. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather.
He leaves behind his beloved wife Susan; his children Norah, Shean (husband Jason), and Blair (wife Jenn); his treasured grandchildren Ryan, Max, and Zac and sister-in-law, Wendy. He will also be fondly remembered by his nephews Stewart, Alasdair, and David Carmichael, nieces Linda and May, extended family in Scotland, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
A proud Scotsman through and through, Norm enjoyed golf, followed tennis with enthusiasm, appreciated a fine glass of Glenlivet, and never missed an opportunity to share a joke. He possessed a quick wit and a love of puns that could bring as many groans as laughs from those around him. Friendly by nature, he genuinely enjoyed the company of others and valued the friendships he built throughout his life.
When reflecting on his own life, Norm once wrote that if he could offer advice to his younger self, it would be simple: “Get an education. And take singing lessons. Be nice to everyone. Smile more often.” Those words reflected the humility, warmth, and kindness that guided him throughout his years.
Susan described Norm best: he was a good husband and father. Not a perfect man, but a man who did the best he could, loved his family deeply, and cared about the people around him.
Though he will be greatly missed, his legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, the laughter he shared, and the many lives he touched along the way.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Barnes Memorial Funeral Home, Whitby, Ontario, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m in the chapel. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Diabetes Canada.
The family has kindly requested a scent free environment on the day of the events, asking guests to refrain from using any scents or bringing flowers upon visiting.
“Be nice to everyone. Smile more often.”
These simple words were among Norm’s guiding principles and are a fitting reminder of the life he lived.
