Norman Alexander Smith

Norman Alexander Smith

After a very productive and accomplished life, Norman Alexander Smith passed away on November 27, 2024 after a valiant battle with cancer.  He was 83 years young.   

His memory will be forever cherished by his son Bradley Alexander Smith (Gali Smith) of Tottenham, ON and his daughter Lorraine Smith (John Ricketts) of Kingston ON. 

He is also sadly missed by his 6 grandchildren Mikayla Parro (Joe), her children Cole & Ashton, Brady Smith (Jasmine), their daughter Violet, Marlee Smith (Ryan), their daughter Skylar, as well as Colin Ricketts, Angus Ricketts and Karenna Ricketts.  

Norman was predeceased by his father Wilfred Smith (1995), his mother Margaret Smith (2017), his brother Allan (2008), sister Joan Hess (2012) and sister Jean Cleave (2019). 

Norman was born on July 28, 1941 in Meadow Lake Saskatchewan.  He was the first born of 4 children. In 1950, the family relocated from Saskatchewan to a farm outside of Ochre River, which remained in the family up until a few years ago.  Norman shared many fond memories growing up on the farm. 

After high school in 1963, Norman and his wife Irene (Boerchers) Smith (divorced) left Manitoba for Ontario and moved to Manitouwadge ON. There they welcomed Bradley in 1967.  After attending Police College (1968), the family relocated to Elliot Lake and welcomed Lorraine in 1971.  He enjoyed his career as an OPP officer, then later as Supervisor of Security for Denison Mines Ltd.  

Norman moved to Blind River ON in the early 90’s to live with his wife Stella (Sinclair) Smith (deceased 2007). He spent almost 40 years living in Blind River. This afforded him the space to truly become a purveyor of fine collectables! Outside of his careers, Norman was a man of many talents.  He built several homes, developed properties, refurbished antique cars, trapped, was a cabinet maker, carpenter, electrician, plumber, cross-worder and always lent a hand to many neighbours. He was known to most Princess Auto Stores in Ontario and Manitoba, simply as ‘Norm’. We also cannot forget his love for the Toronto Maple Leafs! 

Norm let it be known that he was beyond proud of his children Bradley and Lorraine and adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was able to spend increased time with his family, over many occasions and visits in the past 3 years, as he drove himself 800 km to Kingston ON for his cancer care. He was beyond grateful for the exceptional medical care he received there. The only thing stronger than his work effort, was his will to live.  

A Celebration of Norman's life hosted by his family took place on Saturday, July 5, 2025, around 1:00 p.m. at the Ochre River Municipal Hall for all those who wanted to honour his memory.

In lieu of flowers, Norm would likely remind you to enjoy life! Oh Boy!