Obituary of Norman John Beckett

Passed away at the age of 79 surrounded by his family at the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH) after a courageous battle with Chondrosarcoma cancer. Beloved husband and best friend of Judy Beckett (nee Irwin). Loving dad of David Beckett (Carol) and Brenda McClymont (Gord). Grandpa of Melissa (Daryl) Brandon, Anthony (Alicia). Ryan (Melissa), Natasha (Karyn) and great grandpa of Clarissa, Connor, Paige and Aiden, Scarlett, Isaac and little Chloe and Lhyrik. Brother of Edna Mearow (late Roy), Wes Beckett (Edith) and Gordon Beckett (Diane). Son-in-law of the late Roy and the late Ruth Irwin. Brother-in-law of Norma Williams (Dave), late Lucille Smale (John) and Frank Irwin (Ann). He will be fondly remembered by his many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. Norman was the son of the late Archie and the late Leila Beckett.

Norman was raised on a farm in Walford and was the youngest of four. He was a hard worker and worked at Algoma Steel never missing a shift. In his spare time, he split wood and snowplowed always keeping busy. He was mechanically inclined and he could name any vehicle, year and date and just by listening to it he could tell you what was wrong! He was a fan of the races and enjoyed watching a good hockey game. His memory was unbelievable. He looked forward to his holidays and adventures to Florida, the West Coast, but mostly enjoyed his camping at Pancake Bay riding his bike, feeding the squirrels, walking the fur babies and enjoying a dip at the beach to cool off. Norman loved visiting with passersby and was never happier than when he had a good fire going. He took great pleasure in teasing those around him while he cooked his favourite steak and potatoes, always with a twinkle in his eye. After supper, he would make his way over to Carver’s for an ice cream cone, then enjoy a leisurely ride around the park, keeping an eye out for bunnies — and perhaps even a bear. He would end the day the way he loved best: back at the fire, surrounded by friends, sharing stories and laughter. He always had a good joke or story to tell, he had a great love for his family, he was not only known as grandpa but also poppa poppa. Norman and Judy had a long life of 55 years together and he never went to bed without telling her how much he loved her and always complimented her on the meals with a thank you. Norman was thankful for what he had never reaching out for more. In all, Norman lived his life to the fullest.

Norman was a strong man with a strong faith. He believed in the resurrection Rev 21:3-5 and John 5:28-29. We would like to thank the Doctors, nurses, caregivers and volunteers for going out of their way to make Norman comfortable. Thank you to all our family and friends for all the support given and the food, cards, flowers, phone calls, rides and prayers. A special thank you to the girl who made the milkshakes and to Jack and the rest of the staff at ARCH. A heartfelt thank you to Brenda and Gord for the care they gave us and for the display of family pictures – they made Norman’s life complete during his last days.

At Norman’s request, no services will be held. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Sault Ste. Marie Humane Society, ARCH or the SAH Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758).