It is with profound sadness our family announces the passing of Rodney James Norton on November 23, 2021.
Rod was born in Oshawa, Ontario on February 1, 1941 to parents Della and Herbert Norton (deceased). His siblings are Gordon (deceased), George (Trudy) and Margaret (John).
At 18 he joined the military. In 1960 he was sent overseas to Deilinghofen/Iserlohn, Germany. There he met Margrit and they were married in 1962. The following year they arrived in Canada to start their new life in Victoria, BC. Their two children are Birgit (Brent) and Christine (Don). In 1972 the family joined Dad on another posting to CFB Baden-Soellingen, Germany. Five years later the family moved back to Victoria, BC and made their home in Colwood.
In Dad’s retirement years he moved to Mill Bay, BC. Dad loved spending time with his granddaughters Madison and Brianna. He always spoke kindly of his friend Paul, especially their motorcycle trip through the United States and Canada. He enjoyed many hours fishing with his friend Kevin (Katie). When Kevin’s son Liam was born Dad doted over him like any Grandpa would.
Dad was very creative and artistic. His passion was woodworking as well as refinishing antique furniture, and making his own tools. He used his knowledge and turned it into a small business called “Rod’s Woodworking”. He also loved to garden, made his own fly ties for fishing, was interested in his family history, and also liked to gold pan.
Family was important to Dad. He was a quiet person, with a kind and gentle soul.
Earlier this year due to health and mobility issues Dad moved to Kamloops to be cared for by his daughter Birgit. After watching his daughter gardening, Dad commented how happy he was we shared many of the same interests.
On November 23, 2021 exactly 58 years to the day he brought his wife to Canada, Birgit held her Dad’s hand as he stepped off the dock over onto his boat for an eternity of fishing.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to the family from