Norman KEITH

KEITH, Norman Blair
August 2, 1912 - December 19, 2016
It is with sadness we announce the unexpected passing of Norman Blair Keith, early on Monday morning, December 19, 2016. He was in the hospital, fighting pneumonia, and intended to be home with his family, for Christmas. Alas, but the years were catching up.
At 104 years young, he was bright, sharp, and full of life.
A man's man - a warrior.
Norman was born on a ranch in Saskatchewan, in 1912. He was a gifted athlete, playing hockey, and baseball, rising to play in the minor pros. At an early age he turned to boxing, and shortly after felt he needed a real job, so he joined the Bank of Montreal.
His career with the bank lasted 48 years, only to be interrupted by his joining the 12th Manitoba Dragoons during World War II. He was a dedicated and decorated military man rising to the rank of Major. He and his unit played a key role in the liberation of Holland. He was extremely proud of his men, his military association and heritage.
He also took great pride in his career with the Bank of Montreal. Various postings across Canada served to deepen his respect for the Bank, and foster an expansive network of friends, and co-workers, coast to coast.
Norman was one of the longest serving members of the Grand Masonic Lodge of Manitoba, and a lifetime member of the Ladner Rod and Gun Club. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and outdoorsman to the very end. Often enjoying nature and the camaraderie, more than the actual sport. He had a wonderful appreciation for life's little moments - from the changing weather and seasons, to all that nature bestows. He loved the outdoors.
Norman married Norma Nicholson in 1939. Thirty-four years later in 1974, Norma passed away. She was the love of his life, and he never remarried.
He is survived, by his proud son Moray and his wife Pam, adoring Grandchildren Gregory - wife Jessica, and Courtney - husband Tyson Motz. Norman became a great grandfather to Bowen Blair Motz last summer. "The apple of his eye". He was so happy, and so very proud. Norman leaves behind many in-laws, nephews, nieces and members of the Clan Keith in Canada and Scotland.
Well read, a historian, he was the Patriarch of the Keith Family in Canada. Quick to recite family history, a nuance or a relationship, he enjoyed a "wee dram, and a good story". Norman was fiercely loyal to his family and friends, and will live on in everyone's heart as a charming, and remarkable man, that touched the lives of so many. If riches are friends, you would not find a wealthier man. His optimism was irrepressible - we all have been enriched by the time we spent with him, and are deeply saddened by his passing.
A Celebration of Life, for relatives and friends, will be held Friday, January 13, 2017 from 2 - 5 p.m., at Beach Grove Golf Course, Tsawwassen.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to
the Delta Hospital Foundation, or a charity of your choice.