Obituary of Norman Holmes

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our dear father, Norman Holmes, 97, of St. Stephen, NB, on July 15th at Charlotte County Hospital. Born in Yorkshire, England, on October 27th, 1921 to the late Elizabeth (Hay) and Willie Holmes. Norman is survived by his son, Philip Holmes of St. Stephen, daughter Carolyn Messer (Dayle) of Saint John, grandchildren Kimberley Messer (Kirsten ) of Toronto, Christopher Messer (Sarah) of Saint John and four great grandchildren, William and Ethan Messer and Joah and Colby Elizabeth Messer/Johnson, and several nieces and nephews. Norman is predeceased by his wife, Barbara, brothers Jack and Sydney and sisters Anne, Mary, Ethel and Edith. Norman came to Canada with his parents and six siblings in 1927 when he was five years old. They arrived in Waweig, NB and were met with many challenges to feed a large family. Waweig neighbours pitched in before winter and gave them a start. Norman often shared wonderful stories of the early years helping us to see how much easier life is today but Dad would say not necessarily better. Norman served overseas during WWII with the 402 Squadron of the RCAF as a aircraft mechanic where he met his future bride. After the war he returned to Charlotte County where in took a six month course in automotive repair. In later years he would become president of the Milltown Garage where he built a successful car dealership and service station.. Norman was a life time member of the Canadian Legion and over the years proudly paraded with wife, Barbara, on Remembrance Day. The two loved sharing war experiences with the local schools. He was a life time member of the Masonic Lodge and belonged to Kirk McCall United Church. He was a member of the St. Stephen Curling Club, golf club and was an honorary member of the Maritimes Senior Golf Association. Norman served as president of the St. Stephen Kiwanis Club and the Royal Canadian legion. As well he served his community for three terms on the Town Council. Our dad had a great love of gardening. His back yard was always in beautiful bloom and enjoyed by the many birds at his feeder and the occasional deer, regretfully, that ate his rose buds. His wood working shop produced treasured projects of furniture pieces large and small which he lovingly gave to friends and family. Family and friends especially enjoyed his garden gazebo. The family would like to thank all those in the Veterans Department who helped him with his home support, Dr. Konforte and those at the Charlotte County Hospital who on many occasions helped our dad return home after reoccurring illnesses. A very special thanks to Extramural, visiting nurses, Home Support and Personal Care workers.. Family, friends and neighbours were so appreciated for their visits, special treats and concerns. Resting at Humphreys Funeral Home,20 Marks Street, St. Stephen., NB Visitations from 6:00 – 8:00 pm on Thursday evening from the funeral home.. A tribue to a veteran service will be conducted at the funeral home on Thursday evening at 5:30 pm The funeral service will be held at Kirk McColl United Church on Friday, July 19th, 2019 at 1:00 pm. Rev. Dr. Mark Hatfield officiating, with a reception to follow in the church hall. Donations may be made to a charity of choice. Personal condolences to family may be made through www.humphreysfh.com