Norman P. De Bastiani

Norman P. De Bastiani passed away peacefully at the Veteran’s Home surrounded by his family on November 8th, 2024, at 94 years old. The son of Giovanni and Tranquilla, Norman was born on June 14, 1930, with his twin brother Walter. After graduating from Northampton High School, Norman joined the US Army at 18 and served his country in Korea. After receiving his honorable discharge from the military, Norman attended American International College and studied diligently, receiving his bachelor's degree in chemistry. He was a chemist at Chartpack, a company in Leeds, MA, until his retirement. Norman and his wife Patricia (nee Trudeau) raised their family in the house he built in South Hadley.  Norman was a stalwart friend to many neighbors, acquaintances and the community. He was also a caring uncle to his sister-in-law Barbara and her children after the passing of his brother Walter.

Norman had a strong connection to his Italian roots and made yearly visits to Italy, forging strong connections with his relatives there. Norman had many passions and hobbies, including carpentry, travel, fishing, gardening, but most of all spending time with friends, of which he had many, and his family. Norman leaves to cherish his memory, his three children, Robin Reitz and son-in-law Sam in Ventura, California. Lisa Laprade and son-in-law Brian in Southampton, Massachusetts. and John De Bastiani of Montecito, California. His grandchildren Miles and Alina Reitz will always remember him fondly as ‘Nonno’, he was an important part of their lives. 

Norman made connections and friendships with him wherever he went. Always a pillar in his community, he was president of the Lions Club in South Hadley and ran the ski and skate sale for many years. As well as a proud officer of the Circolo Club. Norman’s Catholic faith was incredibly important to him, and he was an active member of St. Theresa's Church. 

The funeral will be Wednesday November 13th at 9:00 am from the O’Brien Family Funeral Home followed by Mass in St. Theresa’s Church at 10:00 am. Burial in Evergreen Cemetery. Calling hours are Tuesday November 12th from 4:00 to 7:00pm. For more information or to make online condolences please go to obrienfamilyfh.com. Memorial donations may be made to the Veteran’s Home in Holyoke, 110 Cherry St., Holyoke, MA 01040 or to the Northampton VA Medical Center, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA 01057. Norman’s family would like to thank the staff at the Soldier’s Home for the wonderful care they gave him.