Thursday, May 8, 2008

Loosing Norm

The life and times of Norm Bates. What a great man this guy was. There are so many words that describe him. Sweet, loving, kind, generous. He was witty and smart. Sometimes serious and stoic. He loved his Sawmill and his Music. There were many summer nights you could see him out on his fork lift(always in his signature overalls), moving logs around, then ride by his house later in the evening and you would almost always hear him playing his guitar. He loved his family and his friends. He loved his community and was dedicated to helping it. He played for endless dances and donated logs to many businesses. He loved his grandbabies. I heard "Rotten little kid" spoken to my kids several times. This was always a compliment. My kids adored him. Todd adored him.

My sweet father-in-law passed away May 7, 2008 in Salt Lake City surrounded by his kids and wife of 40 years. He left us with a smile on his face, which told most of us that Ruth was with him. He fought a courageous battle with so many health problems for many years. His body finally gave up the fight. He was 73. A good life, full of love. Our world is missing one more father, one more wonderful guy.

2 comments:

Pat said...

Sigh - tough times for the Bates and Taylor clans. I am sorry to hear this news. I remember driving by ol' Bates Lumber and looking to see if Norm was there on my way to and from school. Sometimes you would see Todd or others, and sometimes just Norm. I am sorry for your loss. I am glad I got to hear Norm play so many times, that is a good memory.

Anonymous said...

Melea,
I am so sorry to hear that Norm has passed away. I remember him always smiling and wearing his "signature overalls". He was a great man and has left a true whole in your family that will always be filled with happy memories. My thoughts are with you and Todd and the kids.
Keri