On Sunday November 20, after a brave struggle with Dementia, Norma, wife, Mom , Grandma, Great Grandma, sister and Aunt surrounded by family, peacefully left us to be with the Lord.
She was predeceased by her parents, brother Allan Downes and sister-in-law Gwen Downes.
Family members left to cherish all the great memories are husband Ron, daughters Jacqueline Corbett (John), Anita Watts, Rhonda Powrie( Steve).
Grandchildren Catie Corbett, Rachel Ma (Jon), Jane Corbett, Brianna Powrie (Ben) and Taylor Powrie (Hanna). Great Grandchildren Ben, Janaya and Lilia Ma. Siblings Edna Armstrong, Gordon Downes and Mavis Morrison (Jim). Sister-in-law Linda Downes. Also left to remember her are her numerous nieces and nephews. Norma was particularly proud of all of her family.
Norma was born in New Westminster and grew up in Haney B.C. She graduated from Maple Ridge Seconday where she excelled at track and field. Upon graduation she took her nurses training at Royal Columbian Hospital. After marrying Ron in 1962 and a Short Stint at Vancouver General and Chilliwack, in 1964 the family moved to Westwold to accommodate Ron’s teaching career. In 1966 the move was made to Kamloops and as a part-time nurse Norma began her nursing career at Royal Inland Hospital. Over the years she nursed on different floors, became a head nurse, supervisor and finally retired from the position of Director of Mental Health Services.
In 1975 property was purchased in Valleyview with river frontage and a house was built that would accommodate large gatherings. Besides her rose and vegetable gardening Norma was the beautiful hostess for many staff parties both nurses/doctors and teachers, baby showers, birthday parties, graduation parties, church gatherings and anniversary parties.
Along with her family, career and friendships, the Baptist Church and her faith were always an important part of her life from a young age to present. She was always active in the organization of Sunday School, music and cooking for large groups. Her interest in music carries over into the community where she was involved in choirs and musical productions.
In retirement, travelling every year and active community service were important to Norma. She was a founding member and President of the Kamloops Adult Learning Society and a Director and President of Thompson Rivers University Alumni.
Many thanks to the staff and Dr. Wynne for the special care given to Norma at Ridgeview Lodge.
A Celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Offer Condolence for the family of Norma Watts 1940 – 2022
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Lori Jane Froese
Norma shone a light so bright it’s warmth was felt in her presence. She was always so inviting and open with me and my family. I remember one Christmas in particular when we didn’t have an family around, Norma invited us in to her beautiful home to spend the time with her family. It is a special memory as is the smile I saw on Norma’s face everytime I saw her. She was well loved as she loved so well.
Anita
She was indeed well loved and loved well, Thankyou Lori Jane
Sharon Black
Dear Ron & family: I would like to express my sincere condolences to you and your family at this time. Norma was such a lovely lady, with a beautiful smile and I know she will be dearly missed. May she Rest In Peace.
Jennie Stadnichuk
Dear Ron and family: Please accept my (and my family’s) condolences on Norma’s passing. Remembering Norma brings to mind what a lovely neighbour she was and of course daughters who reflected her kindness whenever they babysat my children! Also noteworthy about Norma was her return to University that resulted with Graduation in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science degree. Norma and myself and one other ‘mature’ student proudly accepted our degrees. Such an achievement, especially for a ‘mature’ student was noteworthy as her life was very full in addition to her studying. As written in her Obituary, her amazing volunteering with KALS contributed so much to the variety of courses offered. She will be missed in so many ways.
Donna, Mariah and Tianna Williamson
Norma was an icon. I have been deeply blessed and honored to have known Norma for 51 years. I don’t think she knew what a tremendous influence she had on me, I admired her greatly as I was growing up and modelled my own parenting style after her. She exuded love and care (even in the mundane!) and gave so much to others in a cheerful way. I’ll never forget what a joy she was to be around. I admired Norma’s character and heart more than anything.
So many treasured memories of a beautiful lady who lit up even the darkest days with her smile. There is nobody in the world like her, I will miss her along with you. With love and friendship, I am wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Norma was truly an angel on earth, and now a beautiful flower has bloomed in God’s Kingdom.
Wayne and Norma Watts
So sorry to hear of Norma’s passing. She was such a beautiful person inside and out. Enjoyed our happy hours at Park Place. Especially memorable was the Health Unit Christmas party where they called out “Norma Watts” to receive a door prize and both of us went up together. The poor announcer couldn’t understand what was going on.
Sending our thaughts and prayers for you, Ron, and your family.
Gordon Davis
Dear Ron and family,
I was saddened to read of Norma’s passing.
I remember her as a a friendly, genuine, and classy lady – quick to smile and to engage others in conversation. I know you all miss her deeply. I hope that the countless happy memories you shared together will bring you some comfort in your time of loss.
My sincere sympathies.
Gordon
Allan and Diane Fraser
Sorry to read of Norma’s passing.
Norma was such a dedicated nurse and a tribute to the profession.
We spend many years working together at Royal Inland Hospital and she was always inspiring other nurse to be their best and encouraged excellence in nursing practice.
Deepest sympathies on behalf of my husband and I.
Diane and Allan Fraser
Tracey
I first met Norma as I was travelling through to Banff on holiday from the UK many years ago. My good friend Anita (their daughter) was my tour guide, and it was my first time meeting her parents as well as being in Canada. My overriding memory of that initial and subsequent visit was of a kind, generous woman and welcoming host. She had a warmth and sincerity that resonated through her that immediately put me at ease. I feel privileged that I got to see her again this year when back in Kamloops and will have very fond memories of her smile and hugs. She will be missed by all who knew her, and my love and thoughts go to her family and friends.
Anita
Thankyou Tracey I know she loved your visit, your kindness and caring was so appreciated
Anita xx
Dolores Duke
My condolences to Norma’s family on her passing into the Lord’s presence. I remember her well from my days at First Baptist in Kamloops. What a pillar she was in that church, esteemed by everyone for her leadership abilities. May the wonderful memories you have of Norma bring you great comfort.