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LT. COL (RET) NORM DONOGH  Obituary pic LT. COL (RET) NORM DONOGH  Obituary pic

LT. COL (RET) NORM DONOGH

Born: Apr 09, 1923

Date of Passing: Aug 11, 2014

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LT. COL (RET) NORM DONOGH It is with sadness that the family announces the passing of Norm Donogh at Winnipeg, Manitoba on August 11, 2014. Both a loving husband and father, he was also an adoring Papa to his grandchildren. Family and friends were very important to Norm. Born in Winnipeg on April 9, 1923, second child to Rev Wallace Donogh and Mabel Ashworth, Norm grew up surrounded by love, music and a strong faith. He shared these gifts throughout his life time. During the Second World War, Norm served in the Royal Winnipeg Rifles, participating in the D-Day landings and the Liberation of Holland. Upon his return from overseas Norm completed his BA and worked as a teacher, then a reporter and columnist for the Winnipeg Free Press. It was while working at the paper, he met the love of his life June (Cherry) they were married in May of 1952. Norm took a job with the Province of Manitoba, Dept. of Industry and Commerce in 1956. He was a dedicated civil servant; there was no question regarding protocol and procedure that Norm could not answer. During his time with the province he served as aide-de-camp for Lt Governor Pearl McGonigal. Retiring in 1988, Norm and June were able to travel, something they enjoyed thoroughly for many years. When Norm and June became grandparents they planned many wonderful experiences for "their girls". Every family get together was recorded for their memory project, a legacy that is appreciated. Norm was an active participant in compiling both regimental histories of the famed Little Black Devils, leaving a historically correct legacy for future generations. He was proud to have been part of the planning of the Regiment's 125th Anniversary. His dedication and work was honoured by their Colonel and Chief HRH Prince Charles in a personal message to Norm. Poor health prevented him from attending this year's 70 anniversary celebration of D-Day in Normandy. His last act of Remembrance was laying a wreath during the 70th anniversary of D-Day at Vimy Ridge Park on June 6 of this year. He will always be remembered as heavily involved in the regiment, teaching the younger generations the importance of the sacrifice made by so many young men. Norm had a keen mind and a ready wit. He was a long standing member of the Winnipeg Press Club, and The Manitoba Community Newspapers Association granted him a lifetime membership. Norm was extremely proud of being a member of the "Senators", curling at the Granite Curling Club. Norm is predeceased by his wife June, parents Wallace and Mabel, brothers Roland and Gordon and sister Lorraine. Norm is survived by his son Brian, wife Ellen and granddaughters Jacqueline, Shannon, Danielle, a sister Gwen Hewlett and many nieces and nephews. Respecting Norm's wishes, a private family interment has taken place at Thomson "In the Park" Cemetery, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard. A Memorial Service to celebrate Norm's life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests honouring Norm's memory through one of the following: the Victoria Hospital Foundation, the St. Boniface Hospital and Research Foundation or the Royal Winnipeg Rifles Foundation. THOMSON "IN THE PARK" 204-925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 16, 2014

Condolences & Memories (4 entries)

  • I am sorry to hear of Norm's passing recently. I worked for Norm in the late 70's as a media relations coordinator at Information Services with the Manitoba Government. Norm was a joy to work with and he taught me a great deal about writing, editing and communications. He was a true professional. I had not seen Norm in many years after moving to the Victoria in 1990, but I often would be reminded of him and his teachings during my 35 year communications career. Norm was a good person who had the respect of everyone. Best wishes to Norm's family. - Posted by: Mark Stefanson (Past employee) on: Aug 19, 2014

  • I am sorry and surprised to learn of Norm's death. I was with him, and my mother, Frances, at Government House not that many weeks ago where he had a great visit with Prince Charles and Camilla. Norm and I go back to 1966 when I worked at the Free Press as a reporter, and the Business Editor, and given Norm's senior position with Industry and Commerce, and his Free Press back ground, he was the go-to guy when we had questions or needed help. Norm was honest, fair, and amazingly generous with his time and assistance. Way above and beyond the call of duty. A true straight arrow. Norm was genuinely interested in people and was always able to find the best in someone, or a situation. He as a happy person whose face would light up when he saw someone he knew. I can't bring him to mind without seeing a smile on his face. From Princes to Premiers, from reporters to Prime Ministers, Norm dealt with them all with the same grace and kindness. He was a true gentleman. Condolences to Brian, Ellen, Jacqueline, Shannon, and Danielle. - Posted by: Sheldon Bowles (Friend) on: Aug 18, 2014

  • I had the pleasure of working with Norm whenever our Division had budget-related information releases to prepare. Norm was incredibly kind and helpful in guiding our preparations of material to make it more comprehensible to the public. His humour also helped relieve tensions arising during the grinding process of budget preparation. He was a gentleman and upstanding civil servant - a good model for us all. My condolencs to the family. He will be missed. - Posted by: RenĂ© Perreault (friend) on: Aug 17, 2014

  • Canada has lost one of its finest and respected citizens in the passing of Norm Donogh, whom I had the the honour of knowing for about 50-years. To know him was to know integrity. It was his signature. As a soldier in World War #2, Norm served his country with distinction. As a civilian, he left an indelible mark through his work in government and service to his community. He was simply one of the best; he will be missed and long remembered. R.I.P. - Posted by: John Harvard (Friend) on: Aug 17, 2014

Thomson In the Park Funeral Home and Cemetery

Thomson In the Park Funeral Home and Cemetery

1291 McGillivary Blvd. (Map)
Ph: 2049251120 | Visit Website

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