Norris Arnold Andreasen
September 27th, 2019
Predeceased by Father and Mother, Sigurd and Jennie Andreasen (Pedersen), sister Norma and brother Peder Andreasen.
He was the one that everyone thought would be the last man standing. The one who looked fit and strong and healthy and yet died suddenly, without warning, at home at the age of 79 of a heart attack leaving friends and family stunned.
He had many skills and interests – athletics, music, cruising, visiting with his many good friends, caring for his lawn and garden, maintaining his home and rental properties, CNN political broadcasts and – probably most of all – talking. He could have a 30 minute conversation with a wrong number caller. If you knew Norris, you knew that you had to leave plenty of time for a chat. There was no such thing as a short visit.
He had a positive influence on countless young people over the years, largely because of his role as teacher, coach and counselor at Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows High Schools. He saved and treasured many of the letters of appreciation he received from appreciative parents and students.
He loved his family dearly. His children and grandchildren were never far from his thoughts and he was deeply proud of the wonderful people they had become. They are people of honour and compassion and loyalty, following their father’s example. They are his legacy.
Rest in peace my love. We will miss you.
No flowers, please. Donations in his memory, if desired may be sent to:
BC Heart and Stroke Foundation or Ridge Meadows Child Development Centre
Service of Remembrance to be held on Thursday, October 17 at 2:00 PM at Garden Hill Funeral Home, 11765 - 224 Street, Maple Ridge, V2X 6A5.
You are invited to leave a personal message for the family.
Messages:
We are sorry for your loss. We are thinking of you at this sad time. Albert & Gloria
Dear Barbara and Family: My condolences and prayers are with you, as you grieve the sudden loss of your dear husband, father, and grandfather. Norris and I shared duties as Work Experience Teachers, but at different schools. Monthly district meetings were alway a great time to catch up and share the latest stories. Norris was dedicated to his students and school and was a wonderful role model for those around him. Maynard Embree SD42 Retired.
Dear Barb & Family, I was deeply saddened to learn of Norris's sudden passing from Diane Guerrier. Duncan (late) & I got to know the Andreasen Family in 1959 when we lived across the street from them and we had many happy gatherings with the Andreasen/Pedersen clan creating such wonderful memories. With regret I will not attend Norris's Celebration of Life as I am flying to Edmonton to visit my daughter, Christine, on that date. Please accept my very deepest sympathy on such an unexpected loss. My thoughts are with you all. Most sincerely, Donelle MacKenzie
To the Andreason Family: It was with shock and tearful surprise that I heard of Norris’s demise. Having worked with both Norris and Barb during my teaching career, I developed a bond with your family. Norris was a member of our monthly luncheon gatherings and we shared many merry sessions of stories and humorous group banter. I will always remember his infectious smile and enthusiasm. He was loved by all who knew him. Your loss was felt by many. I offer my deepest sympathy and hope that your family unity and strength will help you through this unhappy time. Faithfully Yours, Dan Lazar
Barb I was so sorry to learn of Norris’ sudden death. What a profound shock this must be for you and your family. I have fond memories of Norris from our teaching time in the 60s at MRSS. We were coaching as well as handling academics and the huge class sizes of that time. Our youth helped. But what meant so much was Norris’ help and friendship in the strange new environment I’d moved to. It started me on that road to feeling at home here, and I will always be grateful for that. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Linda