Norman James ROLSTON

ROLSTON, Norman James
Norman James Rolston O.B.C, M.S.C, C.D. Passed away October 6, 2017 at the age of 85. Norman was born in Willowbunch Saskatchewan. His parents moved with their 3 young sons to Quill Lake, Saskatchewan, which seemed like a breath of fresh air compared to what was known as the "Dust Bowl" of the southern parts. Norm left home at the age of 17 to work in the mining industry in the Northwest Territories. At that time, Norm had a son, Dennis Whitford, who he loved dearly. He then moved back to BC's coast where he joined the army. He spent 13 years with the Royal Canadian Engineers. He then started a 40-piece brass marching band, performing in parades across the province. Upon the completion of his army service, the family moved to the Peace River Country in northern Alberta to begin homesteading. At that time Norm managed Canadian Propane in Valleyview and then became band leader for, first the town band, and then the Navy League band. They moved back to the BC coast where Norm started Rolston Crane and Freight, contributing to our highways, Sky train and Expo 86. Still going strong, Norm started Able Walkers Ltd, introducing wheeled walkers to the world, thus, helping millions of people gain their freedom. Being a true humanitarian, he refused to patent his invention, thus allowing more companies to produce wheeled walkers so that more people could be helped. For this reason, Norm was awarded the Order of BC, the Meritorious Service Cross and the Canadian Decoration Medal. Norman said many times in the last ten years that if he passed away on any given day, he was satisfied with his lot in life. A memorial Service to celebrate his life will be held at Sharon United Church (5 corners in Murrayville) 21562 Old Yale Rd, Langley on Wednesday October 25, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family's online obituary at: www.myalternatives.ca