Obituary of Donald Malcolm Norrie

May 25, 1934 - Edmonton, Alberta

March 26, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Donald Norrie of Calgary, AB, passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at the age of 89 years.

Donald was born in Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, AB, on May 25, 1934. He was the eldest of three children born to Malcolm Norrie and Helena Gossen. Brother of predeceased John Edward (Marilyn) of Leslieville, AB, and sister of Beverly Elizabeth (Marvin) Bird of Stoney Plain, AB. Donald spent his formative years in Edmonton, AB, before moving to Lacombe, AB, with his family in 1948.

In 1950, he enlisted in the Canadian Army (Special Forces) for the Korean War. After his discharge from the army, he worked as a linesman for the Alberta Government Telephones until 1953, when he decided to make the military a career and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Munitions and Weapons Technician. Don had many postings and received numerous promotions during his career while serving in Canada, the Middle East, and Europe. One of his postings during the Cold War, took him to #2 Fighter Wing in Grostenquin, France, in 1955. There he met and married the former Ruby May Jackson of Creston, BC, in March of 1957. Donald retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 35 years of service.

Donald was an active volunteer in the community and contributed for many years as a director with the Air Force Museum of Alberta. He was an active writer and storyteller with many of his articles being published in the Air Force Magazine.

Donald was predeceased by his dear wife Ruby in 2018. Don was a loving son, husband, father, and grandfather and will be forever remembered by his three children, Gordon (Susan), Brian (Kathy) and Susan (Mark); six grandchildren, Brett, Malcolm, Ruby, Mack, Christian, Ashleigh; two step-grandchildren, Nick and Molly; his two great-grandchildren, Isla and Eva; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

A private service will be held for the immediate family.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Donald’s family here.

In living memory of Donald Norrie, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.