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.
29 Responses
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
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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!
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
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.