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Thomas Norman Obituary
Tom was born April 24, 1957 in Rochester, the son of Ora (Norman) Houde and her husband Roland. He grew up in Rochester and moved to Eliot, Maine in his teen years. He attended Marshwood High School and later served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee.
For 34 years, Tom worked at, ran, and eventually owned Gagnon's Auto Body in Somersworth with his family. He treated every customer like family, literally going the extra mile for anyone who called upon him. Tom embodied old-fashioned values like character and integrity. He was very active in his community, often quietly behind the scenes. He was an avid supporter of local sports where he coached and sponsored numerous teams; donated pitching machines and equipment to the Somersworth High School Softball program; provided grills and golf carts to the Somersworth High School Football program; and donated vehicles to Somersworth High School for several car safety programs. Tom did all this and more, not for recognition but because it was the right thing to do.
Tom loved fishing, camping in his RV and spending time with his family. Nothing brought him more joy than coaching and supporting his three daughters and grandchildren in their many sports and activities. He spent many nights lining fields, repairing gloves, cleats, and equipment; and many weekends traveling to softball tournaments from Florida to Canada. The teams he coached won many titles and set many records, but it was the lives he touched that provided the greatest reward. For Tom, it was a labor of love.
Tom is predeceased by his brother, Herbert Norman.
He is survived by his loving wife Maria (Parmentola) Norman of Somersworth; daughter, Melissa (Norman) Lambert of Somersworth and her husband Jeremy and their children Calvin, Abygail and Carter; and daughters, Kimberly and Crystal of Somersworth; his mother, Ora Houde and her husband Roland of Eliot, Maine; brother, Dennis Norman of Rochester and his son Steven; brother, Gary Norman of Inverness, Fla. and his wife Evelyn and their son Tyler; stepsister, Lisa Houde of Newmarket; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held at St. George Catholic Church, 15 Chapel St., Dover at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 16, 2012.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Somersworth High School Softball Boosters.
Visit www.fosters.com/obits for an online guest book.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Norman
KURT BRADFORD
June 6, 2023
I still think of Tom every time I visit Maria and Crystal for business we share, my thoughts and prayers go out to family still, he was a great man, husband and father
Keith & Jennifer Richardson
July 11, 2012
My wife and I got to know Tom after moving to Somersworth in 1993. We asked some neighbors about local car repair shops and they immediately recommended Gagnon's - go see Tom. So we did. He never steered us wrong. Honesty and integrity are the two words that come to mind when I think of Tom. We were stunned to hear of his passing. To Maria and the family, our thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time.
Craig Stevens
June 26, 2012
Maria & Family,
Needless to say I was stunned to hear of Tom's passing. Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family in this very difficult time.
Laurie Tapscott
June 24, 2012
Maria and family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family during this difficult time.
"I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love." Leo Buscaglia
Del Liberty
June 22, 2012
My Depest sympathy to Tom's Family,I knew him as a little boy, At Rowe Chevrolet, Tom was a great human being, in every form you could think of. Peace be with you all in this tragic time, and God Bless you .
Michelle Goodwin
June 20, 2012
There are many people who come in go n our lives. A few touch us in ways that change us forever, making us better from knowing them. You have made a difference in our lives and we are grateful.You will truly be missed my friend. RIP Tom
Larry & Michelle
Kathy McHugh
June 20, 2012
This just doesn't seem real - - Tom was always there running the business with his lovely family around him in person or displayed in photos.And what a kind hearted businessman - 8 or 9 years ago he repaired my exhaust system, and once again last year - for the same price! There will be a special place for him in heaven, as he was definately a saint!!
peter goss
June 19, 2012
Maria and girls- My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you. Tom was the most honest and likeable person I have ever meet.
Kurt Bradford
June 19, 2012
Maria & family,
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing he will be dearly missed, our people always talk about how Tom handled himself in a professional manner, he was always so nice to me when I made a sales call there. We at the Grappone Automotive Group would like to offer our deepest condolences to you and your family, I will stop and visit next time I am in the area.
Morgan Vendetti
June 19, 2012
My deepest sympathies to the Norman family. Tom was enormously likeable and hardworking. His honesty and fairness made it a pleasure knowing him and doing business with him.
Kurt Bradford
June 19, 2012
Maria & Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Tom here at the Grappone Automotive Group he will be missed dearly, our parts staff always spoke highly about the way Tom handled himself in a professional manner and how they liked his candor. Maria I will stop to see you next time I am in the area, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers and have our deepest condolences.
Karen Weston
June 18, 2012
Maria and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Tom. There are so many good memories that we share. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Donna Cmejla
June 18, 2012
Rolly and Ora, I am so very sorry for the loss of your son,Tom.There is nothing as tragic as losing a child. It's been a long time since those days of "Rowe Chevrolet"but I've never forgotten either of you. Please know my thoughts are with you,and may God's light shine down on all of you. With My Affection,
Donna(Welch)Cmejla
June 18, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the Norman family. Tom was a good man I enjoyed knowing him and had dealings with him he was an honest man. You'll be missed by many. Starr Breton
Dave Dutch
June 17, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the Norman family.
Tom was a good friend and ally of girls softball. He was a devoted father and sacrificed a lot for his daughters softball careers. Far to young to leave this world. I'm sure he will be missed.
June 16, 2012
To the Norman Family,
A great husband, father, grandfather, friend, businessman, and mentor has recieved his angel wings to soon. May Tom forever be your family's guardian angel. We will all miss him so much. Our sincere condolences,
The Moore Family,
Mike, Donna, Erica, Lindsay & Chris
John Joyal
June 16, 2012
To the Norman Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sadness. A finer man than Tom Norman I have not met.
Tom will be greatly missed by all those who knew him. A pillar of our community, a gentleman. His kindness touched many people's lives in so many positive ways during his time here on earth. May the power of the Almighty guide and lead you and your loved ones through this time of sorrow and beyond.
John, Lee Ann, Ally & Tyler Joyal
Christy (Dumais) Moore
June 16, 2012
Maria and family....I am so sorry for your loss. I used to babysit for you years ago...
June 15, 2012
Please accept my deepest condolences. Tom was a wonderful person and will be missed by all who knew him. Paul Maskwa
Alison Lane
June 15, 2012
Maria, Melissa & Family,
I am so sorry to here that Tom passed away. Sending thoughts and prayers!! RIP Tom!!
Alison (Cliche) Lane
June 15, 2012
Maria and family. .My deepest condolances to you and love in this diffucult time. Shawn and I loved Tom and all of you. I am in shock to learn of his passing. You all will be in my prayers. Any thing you need please call. Sharon Abbott , Somersworth, NH
Pauline Carlton
June 15, 2012
Marie and family,
our deepest condolances to you and your family. May your memories of Tom bring you comfort during these difficult days.
Steve, Pauline, Nicole and Zach Carlton
Brian Hebert
June 14, 2012
To the Norman family: Words can not express the sorrow on hearing the news of Tom's passing. Tom was an unselfish human being who gave countless hours to Somersworth athletics and the Somersworth community as a whole. Tom was always there as a dedicated coach and father to his girls and was a pleasure to know in my dealings as a baseball and football coach at Somersworth High School. He always had an encouraging word to me on the bus and truly loved giving back to the city in so many ways! He will be greatly missed!
June 14, 2012
Our sincerest condolences to to the Norman family - we have such fond memories of many seasons of softball with you. Tom was such a kind man. Our thoughts are with you. Beth & Shea Gallagher and Kevin Elwell
Roger Berube
June 14, 2012
Maria & family ,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely, Roger & Ellen Berube
Claire & Arthur Guilmette
June 14, 2012
Maria and family,
Arthur and I are in complete shock over Tom's passing. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. God Bless.
Robin Wentworth
June 14, 2012
Maria and Family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you all at this most difficult time. Keep close to your heart all of the great memories that you were able to make with him, for those will help you all get through this. He is now your guardian angel looking and taking care of you from above. God Bless to all.
June 14, 2012
With sympathy,
Nancy Libby
daughter of Nelson Libby.
Patricia Anderson
June 13, 2012
Dearest Maria, Melissa, Kim, Crystal and family, Words can not express the shock and sadness we all felt when we heard the news about Tom. My heart goes out to each everyone of you. Maria I know what a difficult time this is for you as I had to experience the same loss at an early age as well, and my heart goes out to the girls and grandchildren as mine had to experience this as well along with all the other family members and close friends. There are so many words to express the man Tom was and how much he was loved and respected by everyone whose life he touched. We will miss him and will hold dear all of our fond memories of him and the many ways he touched our lives. Hold close all your precious memories and know that we are all here for you and will keep you close in our hearts and prayers. Mrs.D, Steven, Wayne and Jenny
June 13, 2012
Complete shock and sadness when I heard the news. Tom was a great supporter for all and I feel honored to have had him with me as a coach. May his legacy never be forgotten.
Rick Forge, Former SHS Softball Coach
Jeff Vinciguerra
June 13, 2012
Some of my favorite childhood memories are of Tom throwing me off the dock into the water each summer on my birthday. Or him driving the boat as I waterskied behind; thanks to him teaching me how to do it in the first place. He will be missed deeply.
Philip, Donna Houde
June 13, 2012
It's such a loss. When you realize someone like Tom is no longer around,it really hits you hard. He was a friend first to anyone who walked through the doors of his shop.He loved talking about his girls. He was a father that did everything right .Somersworth is really gonna miss this man. I know life goes on, But I'm really gonna miss Tom.Our deepest condolances to your family .
Phil and Donna Houde
Brett and Sabrina Kelly
June 13, 2012
We are so very sorry for your loss. Tom was a kind soul who was always willing to help out when there was need. We will always think of him with fond memories. May your memories help you during this time and know that you are in our hearts.
Tim & Karen Metivier
June 13, 2012
Maria there are just no words to say how sorry Karen and I are for you loss. His kindness and giving was far reaching. From softball to community, his soft spoken yet confident voice and demeanor will be missed by all. And to Rolland and Ora it isn't fair to bury your children. Our hearts go out to you all. We are praying for you.
Nancie,Derek, Sean Cameron-Marshall
June 13, 2012
No words can suffice for the loss of a community leader, father, husband, friend to all. The eternal flame of love will be embedded in everyones hearts as we mourne the loss of Tom. I have been a client at the shop for many years for myself and my boys vechicles and still are to this day. I can always see his warm greeting and asking me how the boys are each time I visited a gesture that lacks in customer service anywhere else. Although he is in the hands of God now his memory that has touched many lives will live on through his legacy Im sure. a laugh, gesture, or some fond memory will warm your heart in the days that lie ahead, although never easy. The journey of death has no restraints or time frame, we travel it on our own pace. i can only hope as you move into the days ahead you find comfort in all he did and all that that he meant to the community, friends,girls he coached,but most of all the loving family he held so dear. I can only hope you find solace in your memories you shared, the values he taught you, and the love you shared. Peace be with you the Norman Family
Shirley & Robert Guilmette
June 13, 2012
Maria & Girls,
Bob and I are so sorry about the loss of your husband and father so close to father's Day and at such a young age. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Maria, many hugs of Love to you during this difficult time.
June 13, 2012
To the Normand Family
We were so sorry to hear of Toms passing he was a wonderful person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this very dark time.
Cheryl and Kayleigh LaBrie
Debra Burk
June 13, 2012
Maria, I am very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. The community has lost a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time.
Lee & Karen Warburton
June 13, 2012
Maria and family,
Our deepest sympathies to you. May your memories bring you comfort during these difficult times. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
June 13, 2012
Ora and Roland, my deepest condolences in the loss of your son, Tom. I have fond memories of him as a child coming to the house to visit Alma and Raoul.
Sincerely,
Irene Collins
June 13, 2012
Roland, Ora, Maria and the rest of the family, we send our heartfelt sympathy. Tom was a great man to work for and to know.
Sympathies, Ken and Chris Blair
Christine Messier
June 13, 2012
To the Norman family: We are so very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and our prayers at this time.
Gary and Evelyn: Love and comforting thoughts go out to you.
martin dumais
June 13, 2012
So sorry to hear about Tom, I remember visiting him at the body shop way back when I was a kid. Allways trying to help everyone, truly a nice person, I will miss him.
Mary Smith
June 13, 2012
Maria, my heart goes out to you and my prayers are that God would comfort and strengthen you.
June 13, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
The Beckeys
June 13, 2012
To the Norman Family,
So very sorry for your loss, may the wonderful memories you shared help you through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Leland ( Junior) Smith
June 12, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Patti, Tony, Jim, and Allison Delyani
June 12, 2012
We will miss seeing his cheerful face at Gagnon's the next time one of us hits the side of the garage with the car mirror. Our deepest sympathies.
Susan Smith
June 12, 2012
Maria and Chystal and Family
I am saddened for your loss my heart felt sorrow goes out to you all words cannot express your loss. I will be forever great full and thankful for the part of Toms life he shared with my son Brandon he was such an inspiration to him as well as many others whom he touched. Prayers of strength go out to each one of you through this difficult time and loss of your loved one. May He Rest In Peace.
cheryl cameron
June 12, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Norman family, there are a lot of fond memories for us.We send our wishes to your entire family.
Cheryl, Danielle,Sean and Deven
June 12, 2012
Maria and Family, Please accept our heartfelt condolences. We have great memories of the good old softball days in Somersworth. Tom will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.
Harry, Jane, Emily, and Molly Forbes
Matt & Jess Moore
June 12, 2012
Maria, Melissa, Kim and Crystal,
Our thoguhts and prayers are with all of you and your families during this difficult time. We are honored to have known Tom. He was a great person, who will be missed by so many. May all of your fond memories help you through this difficult time.
Matt & Jessica (Noonan) Moore
Jacey Harton
June 12, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear of your family's loss. Tom was such a kind hearted person,he'll be greatly missed. May you be comforted by all your wonderful memories of him.
Debbie Northey
June 12, 2012
So sorry to hear about Tom Our thoughts are with your entire family
Linda, Lester, & Diawna Eldridge
June 12, 2012
Maria and family, Were very sorry to hear about your loss. Our deepest sympathies to all, during this very difficult time.
Mike,Ann,Jenn,Kim Gosselin
June 12, 2012
Maria,Melissa,Kim and Crystal
Tom was one of the best! He is going to be missed by all. Our deepest sympathies go out to all of you.
Jeff & Kathy Francoeur
June 12, 2012
Maria,Melissa,Kim and Crystal,
Tom certainly was a wonderful person. His actions inspired others to follow and do the right thing! He was a quiet leader and role model. He will be missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. Our deepest condolences.
Caroline Sullivan
June 12, 2012
Maria, Kim, Melissa, and Crystal,
I was both shocked and saddened when I heard this news, brought me way back to the old softball days with all of you from Tom coaching and Maria and Melissa braiding everyone's hair. He was such an awesome man who loved his family very deeply. When we had some work done on our car a couple years ago all the pictures made me smile, you could just feel all the love in your family. He will be missed and loved by many. My deepest condolences go out to all of you.
Russ Timmons
June 12, 2012
A Good Soul, who I sadly miss.
Russ Timmons
Stacey Brown
June 12, 2012
I was shocked and saddened to hear this news. Everytime I ever came in contact with Mr. Norman, he was nothing but kind and it was very evident how important family was to him. My deepest sympathies to loved ones and friends.
Gary Peterson
June 12, 2012
Tom was great fun at the auto auctions. I really enjoyed his company and cheery nature. He was my friend. Rest in peace. My sympathies to the family.
Hubcap Heaven
Jean Shepard
June 12, 2012
Maria and family,
We were deeply saddened to hear of Tom's illness and passing. He was taken way too soon from you and us. He not only handled all of our vehicles for 20+ yrs. but was a fair man and good friend. He loved his family and his customers as well he always was there to help and answer questions. He will never ever be forgotten but surely missed. The Good Lord needed Tom now and he is without pain ,with God. Always keep memories of Tom near and dear to you as we certainly will. God Bless you all today and always, especially in the next few days and years to come. Again, our sincere sympathy.
Paul Robidas
June 12, 2012
Please know that Tom was always there for assistance when needed. We often would work to hold anti Drunk driving prevention programs for the junior/senior class at the Somersworth High School. When I called him for help he always interrupted my request with what you need you get. American Medical Response considered him a good friend. RIP Tom.
jennifer bigda
June 12, 2012
Tom was an amazing coach and somersworth resident... A man taken to soon.. My thoughts go out to the Norman family..
June 12, 2012
We were so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. He was a very kind man and displayed a great deal integrity. It was apparent with all of the beautiful pictures displayed at the shop, that he loved his family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. The Sherman Family.
June 12, 2012
All of us at Rouleau's are so sorry for your loss. Tom was a friend and fellow business man. He was always there to help when called upon. He will be missed by many in this community, and his generousity will be appreciated for years to come. RIP Tom
Marty Rouleau
Kristin Lirette
June 12, 2012
To the Norman's,
My sympathies go out to you. Tom was an amazing man. I'll never forget all the things he's taught me over the years nor will anyone else whose ever known him. I loved that man like a father and not a day will go by that I don't think of him. My love and thoughts are with you all.
R.I.P Coach
Kelly Kimball-Gagne
June 12, 2012
Maria and Family. Tom was such a caring and giving man. He has touched so many people in many ways and he will be missed! Hold onto the memories that you have of him and cherish them forever.
Sunshine Lawson
June 12, 2012
To the Norman Family,
So sorry for your loss, Tom was a vey nice man and will be in are thoughts always.His journey will go on for ever doing what he loves best.R.I.P
Dennis Dupuis
June 12, 2012
Maria and all, we are truley sorry for the loss of your amazing Father and Husband. He will be missed greatly.
Dennis, Marie, Scott and Lauren
-Deb & Duke Monogrammers
June 12, 2012
Maria and family,
Our deepest sympathies to you at this very sad and difficult time. Tom was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. Hang on to all your wonderful memories. We will miss him.
Your friends, Dennis, Sue and family
Joseph Covey
June 12, 2012
Our sympathies to you and your family. Although our connection to Tom was through his work, we came to know him as a kind, caring and understanding man. We will sadly miss him in our lives.
Joseph&Patty Covey
Tim Bayko
June 12, 2012
Melissa and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Tom will be missed by many.
The Bayko's
Jake Rodden
June 12, 2012
Very sorry to hear about your loss. My deepest sympathies to all, during this very difficult time..
Jake Rodden & Laurie Fortier
Martha Albert
June 12, 2012
Aunt Ora, Maria, Melissa, Kimberly, and Crystal,
Our deepest sympathies to all of you. Sending all our love at this difficult time.
With Love, Martha (Gray) Albert and Family
Dan, Rhonda, and Amanda DiCicco
June 12, 2012
Maria,Melissa,Kim,and Krystal,
We were saddened to hear about Tom. He was the most kindhearted and generous man we've had the privilege to know. We cannot count the times that we called on Tom for help or advice (always last minute) regarding our vehicles, sports for our daughter, etc. and no matter what Tom was doing, he would stop and assist us. We will always remember him and we want you to know we adored him as so many others did.
Truly
June 12, 2012
Maria and family
We are so sorry for your loss. Tom was a very kind and understanding man and will be missed.
Diane and Steve Cliche
Dave and Lisa Cummings
June 12, 2012
Maria & family, our hearts go out to you for the loss of such a wonderful man. We are holding you all close in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Memories are yours to keep forever, cherish each and every one of them - they will help get you through the tough times. Tom was a quiet and caring man who touched many lives, his spirit will live on.
Roger Couture
June 12, 2012
My sympathies to all the family Of Thomas . Marie a great loss for you and your family . He is now at peace no more pain. God bless you all
Jason and Claudine Hill
June 12, 2012
Maria, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Roger Eaton
June 12, 2012
I am saddened to hear of this man's passing. He is surely a great loss to family and friends. I was not a personal friend of Tom, but I have had a couple of business dealings with him and he showed me caring and compassion in these. He will surely be missed.
Bud Jones
June 12, 2012
Maria and family, words can not express the sadness our family feels for your loss. Through the years Tom has not only repaired all the damage we have done to our family vehicles, but did it fairly and professionally. He made his customers feel we were all being treated special, like family. I considered him a friend, the many ways he supported SHS sports along with all the programs at the schools and the City cannot be measured.
He has left a huge void not only in your family, but in the Somersworth family as well. He truly was one of the good men who should have had more time to give to everyone.
If there is anything Denise or I can do, please let us know,
RIP Tom,
Bud & Denise
Kathy Moreau-Metivier
June 12, 2012
Maria & family, Our heartflet sympathy in the loss of such a great man. Tom was such a wonderful person. We will hold on to our memories of him and cherish the time we spent with him. Kathy, Marc, Aaron and Laura
Maureen Michel
June 12, 2012
Maria and family, we are at a loss and Sad to hear of Tom's passing. He has touched so many people in many ways and he will be missed! We will never forget him. Dana Maureen Lindsay and Mallory michel
June 12, 2012
tom; you will be missed by all the people you came in contact you had a heart of gold cathi snow
Donna & Dan Donovan
June 12, 2012
Maria and Family, We are sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He has left a memorable mark in our community and in the hearts of many. RIP
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