Norah was born in Chilliwack, BC, the daughter of John and Eulalie Wheeler. After completing her schooling in Chilliwack, she then attended UBC, obtained her Teaching Certificate and taught in Yarrow Public School.
She met her husband, Archie, who was a young officer at the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack. Married in 1957, Norah and Archie spent the next 3 decades at military locations in: Gagetown, NB; Werl and Soest, Germany; Chilliwack; Norfolk, Virginia; Montreal; Ottawa; Kingston and Trenton. In 1989, upon Archie’s retirement from the Canadian Forces, he was invited to join the University College of the Cariboo (now Thompson Rivers University) and they moved to Kamloops. After 5 busy and enjoyable years they retired to Victoria in 1994. By Norah’s count she had to organize 22 different kitchens because of all the moves!
A lovely lady with a reserved and gracious manner, she possessed a subtle sense of humour and excellent organizing skills. Comfortable in meeting with people, she was an effective partner in establishing the family in both the military and civilian communities in which they resided. A talented homemaker and gardener, she made each home comfortable and a pleasure to the eye. She was Archie’s perfect partner for the 66 years of their marriage.
She enjoyed meeting new friends in each community and as a caring person she volunteered in several hospitals during her many moves. She was particularly fond of her nieces and nephews on both sides of the family and stayed connected with them regardless of location. A resolute cat fancier, her cats travelled with her in all her moves – even to Germany twice!
Special thanks and appreciation are given to the individuals and teams for their efforts in easing the last year of Norah’s life: Dr G Luckhurst, the Royal Jubilee Hospital Gerontology Centre, The Saanich Community Health Nurses, the Paramedics and the doctors and nurses in the VGH Emergency Department.
Cremation has taken place and by request no formal services will be held. A private family service will be held at a later date.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Bob Lee
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MGen (Ret'd) Daniel benjamin Archie, this is very sad news and no doubt quite a shock for you after being with Nora for more than 66 years. I would like to pass on my most sincere condolences and thank you again for taking the time last February to come to the CMEA dinner and meet with me despite the fact that Nora was going thru such difficult times and needed you at her bedside. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
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David & Connie Renshaw Archie: We were very touched reading your tribute to Norah. Please take comfort in the beautiful memories you share with her as your partner serving our country so well!
Please accept our heartfelt condolences and prayers.
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David Burke General, I am very sorry to hear of the loss of Norah. The tribute above paints a picture of a wonderful woman. My deepest condolences.
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Jon & Connie Burbee Archie, we are so sorry for your loss. The two of you made a formidably gracious pair in any setting. Nora’s care for others was genuine and generous. At every meeting she always asked about my girls. She surely touched many at every stop of your life’s adventure together. Deepest condolences.
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Barb Gallup Dear Archie, so very sorry to see that Norah has passed. Such a lovely lady who enjoyed a long and wonderful life with you. Although I have not seen you in years – just wanted to tell you how sorry I was and send you big hugs.
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Carolyn and Bob Archie, Such a beautiful tribute to Norah. Best of all, it comes from the one who knew and loved her best
General
I only remember meeting Nora a few times many years ago it seems.
However I do remember what a wonderful warm and friendly person she was.
My thoughts are with you. I know you will be missing her very much.