Norman Wayne Whipple

Norman Wayne Whipple 11-24-1933 to 2-28-2013. of the Round Valley Indian Tribes of Covelo, CA. Norman loved his familty, especially attending his grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's birthday parties, graduations and school activities. Norman loved the land and enjoyed ranching and pushing dirt for the Pacific Railroad and Central Valley rice fields; hauling heavy equipment for construction, and Oklahoma oil fields; also hunting and fishing as a young man; and greeting the sunrise from the bay window of the kitchen. Norman loved his country and proudly served for twelve years as a Demolition Team Navy Seal that included the Korean War. He said he didn't need to travel out of the country extensively as he had "been around the world twice." Norman loved his Native American Heritage and served on the Round Valley Tribal Council from the 60's through the 90's that included being on the founding committee for the Indian Health Services (establishing Health Clinics throughout Northern California); working with the Round Valley Housing Authority; and being Tribal Council Chair for at least four terms. His duties involved extensive travel to Washington, DC and Sacramento, CA as well in-state and out-of-state workshops and meetings. He was respected for being well-read and informed on all issues related to tribal and political issues that affected the governing and policy-making regulations of the RVIT. He listened intently, spoke when he believed it was necessary, and earned his listeners' respect even if it involved controversy or heated discussions. Additionally, he served as a member and chair of the Board of Education of Round Valley Unified School District in the late 90's. Norman is survived by his present wife, Andrea, and former wife, Annabelle. He and Annabelle have three children: Deborah Oliver, William Whipple and Kimberly Stillwell. There are ten grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. From a family of nine children there remain two sisters, Phyllis Rohloff and Berta Gonzalez, as well as one brother, Dewey Whipple, Jr.; and there is a surviving Aunt Thelma who lives out of state. He will be missed by numerous family members, friends and professional colleagues. Anker-Lucier Mortuary is conducting the funeral arrangements. The wake will be Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at the Round Valley Methodist Church beginning at 4:00 P.M. Services will be held Thursday, March 7, 2013 at the Round Valley Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m., with interment to follow at the Nomalacki Cemetary in Covelo. A Reception at the Round Valley Senior Center will follow the interment.