Norman Jacob Andersen

After a life well lived, Norman Jacob Andersen arrived safe in the arms of God on May 13, 2026 at the age of 88.  Norm was the middle child of five boys born March 16, 1938, in Innisfail, AB. He lived in Dixon, AB for his early years before moving with the family to a dairy farm in Ladner, BC in 1946 then later settled with his family in Deroche, BC in 1952.  After high school, Norm took over operation of the family’s dairy farm.

 Norm married the love of his life, Darlaine, April 13, 1963 and was blessed with four children.  Norm was active in his local Baptist church, 4-H, Future Farmers of Canada, and even the North Fraser Fire Department, where his wife Darlaine supported his efforts by ensuring their first call out was to a familiar residence.  After being flooded out twice, Norm and Darlaine, relocated to their dairy farm in Salmon Arm where they lived until retirement in 1993.

Norm was a “gentle giant” with hands like baseball gloves who was resolute, steadfast, kind, cheerful, and intelligent yet still managed to get potato on his ear during dinner time.  Norm and his wife Darlaine enjoyed many grand adventures in their RV traveling to all four corners of the continent and all points in between. They made great friends and memories, and chronicled all their adventures.

Diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2007, Norm’s clean lifestyle, faith, determination, positive attitude, and Darlaine’s unwavering care and devotion saw him defying the odds for nearly 20 years.  Norm lived life to the fullest with Darlaine always by his side.

Norm is survived by Darlaine, his wife of 63 years, and sons Brian (Annette), Michael (Zenie), and daughter Cheryl, five grandchildren, one step-grandchild, one step-great-grandson, and three brothers.  He was predeceased by parents Aage and Lily Andersen, brother Frede Andersen, and daughter Denise Andersen.

Norm’s kind, gentle, patient demeanour, and larger than life presence will be sorely missed by all who loved and knew him.