A Life Well Lived
Norman David Isherwood was born May 20, 1942, to Elizabeth and Norman Isherwood at the James Bay Inn here in Victoria, BC. Early Sunday morning, August 3, 2025, Norman made his last deal on earth. He appeared to be resting comfortably in his bed – but no doubt was already on to making deals elsewhere, hopefully up above in the endless blue sky.
Family & Friends
Norman leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Michelle, his daughter Stephanie, son Christopher, and five beautiful grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sisters, Eleanor and Grace, but became an inseparable part of his wife’s large extended family, embracing them as his own. He shared many trips, good food and lots of laughs and love with this large family through the years.
A Builder at Heart
Norman began his career in real estate and construction in Victoria, building his first apartment complex – the Norwood Arms on Burdett Street – when he was just 21 years old. Over the years, he went on to build hundreds of apartment units in Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River. His work included commercial buildings, hotels, subdivisions, and lumberyards. Throughout his career, he gave generously and quietly, always sharing what he could with those around him.
After a few years working outside the Seattle area, Norman moved on to develop projects in Phoenix, Arizona. He and Michelle spent more than 30 years, enjoying the desert sun in winter and making many new friends.
The Man Beyond the Work
Norman loved to dance, travel, and talk—often for hours—on the phone, no matter where he was. He had an uncanny ability to strike up conversations with strangers and quickly learn all about their lives in just minutes.
He faced his final challenge—cancer, for the second time in his life—over the past two years with courage and grace. His only complaint: that he couldn’t go to work. Norman was a devoted father (though a famously loud cheerleader at his kids’ sporting events), a wonderful dance partner, a great help in the kitchen after dinner, and a man who could say “I love you” almost every day. His last words were of love for his family.
Gratitude
His final days were eased by Dr. Maria Dibb, Dr. Sena Turkgordon, and the many nurses and doctors at the Cancer Clinic and Jubilee Hospital. The family extends special thanks to Brandy, Joy, Theadora, and Marie for their warmth and kindness.
Endless gratitude to Rose for leaving her home in Windsor and staying the last few months cooking countless blueberry pancakes for Norm. She also entertained him with music and laughter…always good medicine.
On his last day, Father Dean Henderson provided the Sacraments of Confirmation and of the Sick, bringing Norman great peace.
Honouring His Memory
In lieu of flowers, please honour Norman by performing an unexpected act of kindness for someone less fortunate, in his name.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Andrew’s Cathedral on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025 at 12:00pm, followed by a private burial.
A celebration of Norman’s life will be held at Uplands Golf Club, 3300 Cadboro Bay Road, Victoria, BC on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, at 2:00-5:00pm. Please RSVP to: toremembernorm@gmail.com, if you wish to attend.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Isherwood” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Mindy
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Daphne Goode My sincere condolences to you, Michelle, and your family. Michelle, the times I was in your company and Norm’s it was obvious that you enjoyed a robust and wonderful life together! I remember many meaningful conversations with both of you, and thank you for sharing laughter and opinions. It certainly was obvious to me that you were extremely devoted to one another – it was a pleasure to see such an excellent quality marriage. I hope many happy memories sustain you.
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Lynn Phillips I was deeply saddened to hear of Norm’s passing. Back in the early 90’s he was the catalyst in creating an opportunity for me at Three Point Motors. Norm went above and beyond in recognizing the work I had done for his company while I was with another business, and opened a door for me that truly changed the course of my career. He also extended his trust to his home and family when he created another opportunity for me to meet Michelle, and upon her agreement, have me housesit their beautiful home and take care of their 21 year old cat. Norm was a remarkable man. It was truly an honour to know him. My heartfelt condolences go out to you Michelle, and to Stephanie, Chris and their families.
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Karen Volk I remember hearing the nickname Stormin Norman many times.
Norm loved to give advice, I wish I had paid more attention and remember it all now.
My heart goes out to Michelle, Stephanie and Chris, losing your Dad is tough.
XO
Karen
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Terry Farmer Michele and Family
I knew Norm for years and he was always one of the greatest guys. He was always wonderfully ambitious and so successful. He was interested in people and wanted to know their plans and offer advice on what they should do . He was a fun guy and the type of guy I will remember with fondness for the rest of my life.
Leslie and I both send our sincerest condolences to you all
Terry Farmer
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Greg Long My sincere condolences to Michelle, Chris and Stephanie. Norm was such a mentor to me when starting my career so many years ago. He had the magic touch of being able to strike up a conversation with anyone. Some of his wisdom he passed along to me was to get over any fear of just walking up to a stranger and make them a friend. Always looking for someone’s thoughts and really absorbing what was important to them. Norm’s heart was huge and I will really miss that big smile he had every time we got together.
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Judith & Nereo Bagatto Dearest Michelle !
You were his compass, his rock, the love of his life, and you loved him sooo!
We all in our family had wonderful Normy moments, vacations, visits, laughs and shenanigans with Normy!
Our hearts are so very sad to see this giant of a human being gone not from our lives ! When you were with the Ishy’s life was full of laughs and talk and talk but so loving and fun! You were for all of us Hogue’s NORMY always giving, always planning, ready to give something if you needed it!
You will be sooo missed ! You were always Big Normy ! Our brother our friend the best husband to Michelle loving her so much ! Up with the Angels now making deals that was our Brother loving giving Normy!
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Noella Courneya Dear Michelle. It is with very sad hearts we send our thoughts and prayers to you on the loss of your loving husband dear Normie. He was such a bigger than life fellow in his own style of working, talking, building and loving. He adored you and was always saying you were his rock and guardian Angel. You have certainly proven that especially in the last few years during his illness. I know his peace and happiness was your first priority and he is now able to build as much as he desires up in heaven. Probably trying to talk Peter about new pearly gates. We will always miss his big smiles and plans and funny stories and will remember all the good things he accomplished for us with such a loving heart. May you find peace and enjoy your great memories and know that even though we are far away you are always close in our hearts and we are always here for you. Love Noel, Larry and all the family
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Sister Marie Zarowny, SSA Dear Michelle, Stephanie and Chris,
I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember well the first conversation I had with Norm (as well, of course, the many subsequent conversations) and we, the Sisters of St Ann, are deeply grateful for all the ways Norm supported us over the years. This morning we offered Mass for him in the Mount St Mary chapel. Unfortunately, I’ll be out of town this week so unable to join you for Norm’s Mass of Christian Burial and I’ll also be away in September. I would have loved to be able to join you. Be assured of our continued prayer for Norm and for all of you who are left behind.
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Denise Vaughan Dear Michelle and Family,
We are so saddened to hear of Norm’s passing. His obit was lovely. What a life lived! So many memories for you and your family to carry forward in your hearts. We hope that all those beautiful memories as a family help you all to heal in the coming months. Thinking of you!
Our Love,
Denise and Michael Vaughan
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Al and Julie Wilmott Michelle, Stephanie, Christopher and family, we are so sorry for your loss of Norman. We remember all the great times we had in lacrosse and the wonderful parties at your beautiful home. Thank you for sharing your friendship with us. May you find peace in happy memories in the days ahead.
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Darlene Ellis Michelle
Norm was a great guy. You were a great couple.
Condolences from Saskatchewan.
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Mike Clermont Dear Michelle, Stephanie, Chris and family,
Please accept my most heart felt condolences with Norm’s passing.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Mike Clermont
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Jack and Donna. Schaddelee Our deepest sympathy. Thinking of you all. Love Jack and. Donna. Schaddelee
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Dave & Carol Osmond Norm was one of the most generous people we have ever met. He was kind and caring and always great fun to be around. A gifted real estate developer with many successes. We had many good times especially during our time in Arizona and we send our sincere condolences to Michelle, and to Stephanie and Chris and their families.
Dave & Carol Osmond. Parksville.
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graeme lee Our sincere condolences to Michelle and the family
Marnee and Graeme
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Camilla Thorogood My sincere condolences to the family. I only met Chris though a love of bulldogs. My thoughts with the family.
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Roslyn Please accept my deepest condolences Michelle to you and your family. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Thinking of you, Roslyn (Susie’s cousin)
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Ingrid Always with an open smile and a readiness to chat, Norm created such a welcoming presence. He will be missed. Michelle, may your heart forever hold your many years of happy memories. With warmest thoughts and sympathy.
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Sue Owen Will always remember you for countless conversations in my salon; your big presence putting on a wedding for Tim and I . Many dinners and moments that are truly unforgettable; will always hold you close in my heart and grateful to have had you in my life
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Leslie Duncan Michelle, my deepest condolences to you and your family.
Leslie Duncan
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Donald Wakeham I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Norm. Norm and Michelle’s visit to me in Windsor, England remains a cherished memory, and our friendship over the many years has been a true blessing. Norman’s kindness, warmth, and good humour will be greatly missed, and my thoughts are with Michelle and all who loved him during this difficult time.
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Jurgen Weyand Our sincere condolences to Michelle and the family.
Norm can now work directly with the architect of the universe and start a few new projects. For a man with great ideas there is no shortage of work on the other side.
Angelika and Jurgen
Kelowna
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Tony Gill I was a plumbing apprentice back in the 60s working on an apartment on the corner of Rockland and Oak Bay Ave. This is where l first met Norman. He always had time to talk to you making you feel like you had been friends for a long time. I enjoyed working on his projects. I’m sorry to hear of his passing.
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Vanessa Isherwood and Helena Isherwood Sending our love and regards. Happiness and hope for your families bright future ahead.
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Rose Marie Hogue I have had the great pleasure and profound joy to spend the last months of this man’s life with him and my beloved sister Michelle. The laughter, the music, even the few concerts on the Baby Grand on Hollywood Crescent were fun!!
Many meals we enjoyed while you smiled and never complained of your diminishing health. Our short trips in the car for outings, meals, and some shopping with Miss Pippa on your lap make me truly grateful I was a part of your final journey. Your profound generosity to Mom and Dad while they were with us and all of my family which became yours instantly upon marriage to Michelle made us all richer in joy and memories for knowing you! I’m glad I had the opportunities to give fist pumps every night as I went to bed saying “who’s your buddy, who’s your pall?” and you always smiled brightly and showed me your love as a brother only can. Becoming your sponsor as a Catholic was my last official job for you and into God’s loving arms you walked leaving Michelle this early August 3rd morning. I will forever cherish my time at Willows beach sharing meals and laughter with you and personally always be grateful for having a wonderful Chosen brother in my life. Stan and I will watch over and always be available in an instant for Michelle what ever she needs as I made that promise and I intend to keep it. Rest easy Big Normy ❤️️
Your little sis, Rose Marie
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Tim Quocksister Stormy Normy… Where do you start to summarize a legend in such brevity the english language has to offer? you can’t.
I am proud to say Normy was my Godfather, the one I chose in 7th grade when I was attending St. patrick’s elementary school. It only seemed fitting when I was baptized at the same time as being confirmed to ask Norm and Michelle to take on the role of “God Parents”.
Normy was always my biggest fan and had no trouble sharing that with me. I can think of endless coffee sessions at Starbucks on every corner of the earth where he ordered his Latte (extra hot) and the famous muffin (inside joke). Want a muffin? have a muffin, you need a muffin, let me get you a muffin… Those who know, know. The Muffin was just a symbol of time spent together. If he shared a muffin with you, you mattered to him and he mattered to you. I am happy to say Normy gave me more than just a bakers dozen over the years.
Wisdom beyond belief. Love for his family, Love for his friends, love for Real estate, and love for Beau his dog who I remember most. In came Normy in the SUV of the moment, in the latter years Lexus was the choice with Beau on his lap.
I can’t count how many breakfasts,coffees,lunch and dinners we shared, the hours and hours of conversations which generally had the statement “I know I’m repeating myself” or “just between ourselves” inserted somewhere during the story he was telling. All of those were stories better heard the 2nd or 11th time, the confirmation that your secrecy was earned, even if you knew that it was just a part of the sentence, not actually a confidentiality agreement you shared 😉
I could go on and on about Norm and how much he meant to me. I know he did more for me than I will ever know. I know he helped in silence in ways I can assume he played a part, he is looking down now and knows his silent Sainthood didn’t go unnoticed.
I know one thing, Normy loved his wife to the moon and back, even if he cut her off mid sentence saying “Shelly, can I finish? Can I finish shelly”… Oh the Normism we have all seen, He was a special Character that I was lucky to know.
Normy had a grand stature with a sweater over his shoulders that took on the weight of the world with a smile. He earned the name “Grumpy” which my father couldn’t call him anything else. I had the pleasure of seeing more smiles than frowns, If there is one thing he taught me it was to give back. If there is a lesson in life you can learn from someone, this is it, the holy grail of life. Give because it makes you feel good, give because someone needs it, give because you can. For this lesson above all, I am grateful to be his disciple.
Shelly, Blackie, Michelle, My wiiiiife… He said to take care of you. I know I speak for many others, We will. You have given more than you got for so many years, Now its your time to receive.
With Love and Admiration- TQ
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Robyn Johl Hello Michelle; I am so sorry for your loss. Norm has been an intricate part of our family for many years. He was a special friend and I can especially recall how he always wanted to know how I was doing, where was i working. Was I well… almost like a caring brother. He will be missed and I wish his family God’s Grace
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Terry Hogue Good bye Big Brother Norm you may be gone physically but you will always be in my heart …Love Terry Hogue
Dear Michelle,
Just a short note to let you know how sorry we were to hear about Norm’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Our love,
Karnel and Mindy