Norman Penrice

1946 - 2025

Norman Penrice

June 6, 1946 - June 23, 2025

Granite Bay, California - Norman Penrice, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and leadership. He is lovingly survived by his wife of 47 years, Deb Penrice; his children, Jennifer Bergdoll (John), Matthew Penrice, and Jonathon Penrice; and his cherished grandchildren, Grant and Grace Bergdoll. He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Lee Penrice.

Raised in the Bay Area, he graduated from Sunset High School in Hayward. After honorably serving in the Navy, he returned to California and earned a bachelor's degree in biology and a high school teaching credential from Cal State Hayward.

Norman taught junior high school for four years before embarking on a 32-year career in pharmaceutical sales. Starting with Smith Kline and French, he rose through the ranks amid several corporate mergers, eventually retiring as Regional Vice President with GlaxoSmithKline. Among his proudest professional achievements was mentoring employees and helping them grow in their careers. His work took the family to seven cities across four states before settling in Granite Bay in 1993.

An avid car enthusiast, Norman restored and showed numerous classic cars filling his game room with trophies and memorabilia. His prized project was a 1950 Ford Woodie dubbed Surfrod, complete with a custom sound system perfect for playing Beach Boys tunes as he cruised. A lifelong Raiders fan, he held season tickets during their return to Oakland and always believed the next season could be the winning one. He loved music-especially doo-wop and early rock 'n' roll. He spent countless hours procuring records for his treasured Sebring jukebox and watching vintage performances on YouTube. His home was a warm and welcoming place, where he and his wife hosted holiday family gatherings, dinners with friends, and memorable Christmas celebrations where he always brought a touch of Santa's spirit.

In 2007, Norm was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and retired the following year. Though the illness affected his mobility, it never dimmed his sharp wit or his gift for delivering perfectly timed one-liners that left everyone laughing.

Norman will be deeply missed for his humor, generosity, and the unwavering love he had for his family and friends.

A celebration of life is being planned for this coming fall. In lieu of flowers the family requests that any gifts you wish to make be in the form of a donation to a charity of your choice.