About
Norman Pass Obituary
Norman "Norm" Pass, beloved son of Walter and Sarah Pass, was born on October 3, 1931, in Revere, Massachusetts, and peacefully passed away on January 29, 2024, in Sunnyvale, California.
Norm graduated from Revere High School before bravely serving in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at Boston University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and the Bell Labs Program at Stevens Institute of Technology. Norm's dedication to learning reflected his commitment to excellence and would become a hallmark of his illustrious career.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Mimi, his loving daughters Michelle Asplund (Jeff), Janet Pass, Nanci Pass, and his cherished granddaughters Schuyler Goldberg and Devon Goldberg. Additionally, he leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who were touched by his wisdom and kindness. Norm is preceded in death by his brother Lenny and sister Phyllis.
Norm's professional journey spanned over 50 years, commencing at Boeing in Seattle, Washington. He later moved to Bell Labs in New Jersey before embarking on a remarkable 43-year career at IBM, with roles in Yorktown Heights, New York, and San Jose, California. At IBM, he earned the esteemed title of Distinguished Engineer and became a respected member of the IBM Academy.
In 2009, at the age of 78, Norm retired from IBM but continued to contribute as an Emeritus until his passing. His impact on the world of technology and his dedication to innovation were unparalleled.
The Pass family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Cedar Crest Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, as well as Hospice of the Valley, for their unwavering comfort and care during Norm's final days.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Norm will be scheduled in the near future, allowing friends and family to gather and commemorate a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to a charity of your choice, continuing Norm's legacy of generosity and compassion. Norm will be dearly missed and remembered for his remarkable achievements, kindness, and the lasting impact he made on the lives of those around him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Rita Margolin
February 24, 2024
so sorry you both moved so far away. We missed you and the girls but we have wonderful memories ofus all going out together for chinese food.Norm say Hi to Harvey up there . Rita
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Honey Berg
February 10, 2024
I´m not sure if you remember me, but I was Janet´s first grade teacher in Yorktown Heights. I just read Norman´s obituary in the Mercury News and I wanted to send my sincere condolences. I remember meeting Norman and Mimi at Parent´s night at the beginning of Janet´s first grade year. They were both very devoted parents.
Kelly Gregg Rubingh
February 4, 2024
Norm was a presence throughout my high school memories, as Nanci was a very good friend. But my favorite story is my first semester back from college. He never lost his Boston accent. He was making small talk with me and said " Kelly, how are your mocks?"
I had no idea what he was talking about. "My mocks?" I said?
Yes he said. "Your mocks. How are they. Did you do well your first semester?"
I finally realized he met my grades. Yes, I did fine. Thanks for asking
I´ve often laughed thinking about that accent and that question that I had no idea what he was talking about. Another favorite memory is when he signed a birthday card to Mimi "Norman J. Pass". As if he was signing an important document at IBM, and maybe she wouldn´t know who he was
One of a kind Norm, you will be missed. And you were a good father.
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