Ervin Dale Norman

Ervin Dale Norman, known affectionately as Dale, passed away on February 3rd, 2026, in his home in Veneta, Oregon at the age of 74. He was born on May 18th, 1951, in Gassville, Arkansas to Imogene and Darvin Norman.

Dale joined the US Navy in 1971 and services as an engine mechanic on the USS Manitowoc LST 1180 until 1974. He received a National Defense Service medal for his time in the Navy during the Vietnam war.

He married his best friend and love of his life Patsy (Ramey) Norman on April 20th, 1972, in Norfolk, Virginia. They spent over 50 years together enjoying coffee, going on long drives, visiting beaches and light houses, talking and laughing and genuinely enjoying every minute together.

Dale worked as a diesel mechanic in trucking companies and gold mines throughout his career. After retiring from years of physical labor, he got his CDL and became a bus driver for First Student in Elmira, Oregon, where he worked until his passing. Dale was a jokester with all his co-workers and was given the Paul Bunyon award for all his tall tales.

When he wasn't working, he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He loved watching old Westerns, collecting coins, shooting guns, and just getting the car and seeing where he ended up.

His final adventure was with the South Willamette Valley Honor Flight in April 2025 to Washington DC, accompanied by his daughter Christy, where he was honored and appreciated for his time in the service.

Dale is preceded in death by his wife Patsy Norman, his parents Imogene and Darvin Norman, and his brother, Alvin Norman.

He is survived by his son Michael Norman and girlfriend Sherie Conner of Veneta, OR, daughter Christy (Neal) Potter of Yakima, WA, son Eric Norman and girlfriend Melonie McBride of Eugene, OR; his grandchildren Patience Keck (Dylan Lee) of Richland, WA, Alex Keck of Yakima, WA, Aidan Norman of Veneta, OR; one great-grandson, Myles Keck of Yakima, WA; his sister Carolene Gooding of Trona, CA, brother Darin (Sharon) Norman of Creswell, OR, among numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of Dale's life in Newport, OR at a later date.