Norma Wilson

Norma Frances Davies (nee Wilson) of Ottawa was the eighth child born to Norman and the Honourable Cairine Wilson. Where her parents were nation builders, Norma was a family builder. Her adored husband Jim, passed the eligibility test by mucking out the horse barn before a formal luncheon with his new in-laws. They raised four children in a rowdy household: Janet, Caroline, Donald and Kenneth. The measure of the success of that endeavour is found in the strength of the family bonds amongst these siblings.

Beneath the domestic pursuits lay a fierce intelligence. Family discussions were lively and often took on a principled and Liberal tone. Norma could shred crossword puzzles, devour books, and breeze through a game of Trivial Pursuit, while doing a Rubik's Cube puzzle. Her membership in various bridge clubs was a source of pride. The eight grandchildren, Robyn, Christopher, Tim, Heather, Tess, Macx, Nicola and Michael soon learned that while Gran never forgot anything, she could also be counted on to provide level-headed advice on life.

Norma had three guiding priorities: education; looking after those less fortunate (a page she borrowed from her mother's book); and physical activity. Norma was an active member of the Board at Elmwood School; she also supported academic programs for children in Canada and around the world. She and Jim were spokespeople for the Arthritis Society. Norma was a cheerleader for the sporting endeavours of her children and grandchildren. She also mastered her own pursuits, including sailing each summer in blustery winds around St. Andrews NB, her second home, as well as horseback riding (she was thrilled at receiving a new saddle for her 70th birthday), golfing, kayaking, skiing, and curling. Norma was a proud member of the Bar Road 90 – a select group who have seen their 90th birthday and swum in Passamaquoddy Bay. During the winters in Ottawa, much to the delight of Tim and Chris, Norma was a knowledgeable and enthusiastic supporter of the Ottawa Senators.

Norma enjoyed the company of people especially those related by marriage to her family: Rod, Mike, Bonnie Lou, Kathy, Jenny and Terry. She also had a special place in her heart for the next generation: Ivor and his sister Bryn.

Her final words were: "I'll miss you". We will all miss you too.

A celebration of Norma's life will be held on December 2 at 11 a.m. at Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church, 82 Kent Street, Ottawa. A memorial for Norma will be scheduled at Clibrig next summer. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Christie Lake Kids <http://www.christielakekids.com/>