Norman Mansson

Norman wasn’t interested in a traditional obituary, here is an epitaph in memory of our precious Norman.

To the question in 5 Wishes, “If anyone asks how I want to be remembered, please say the following about me:”  Norman wrote,

“I’m a child of our Father who art in heaven. God is always with me and each of us.”

This is how our loved ones described Norman in the many cards, emails, and messages Cheryl received. 

Kind. Thoughtful. Truly a wonderful man. Really connected with God. He worked so hard in his faith. Norman thrived. Lovebird! Warm. Loving. Authentic. Compassionate. Empathetic. Talented. Amazing. Committed. Valued family. Beautiful spirit. Light. Intelligent. Versatile. Resourceful.

A true pleasure and privilege to know and spend time with. Ingenious.

A blessing. A wonderful expression of God’s idea of Soul. Gracious. Personal grace. Lively mind. Gifted. Beautiful qualities. Awesome. Peaceful. Loving. Gentleman. Patient. Gentle. Special. Contributor. Fun. Loved God.

Favorite uncle! Sensitivity. Artistic abilities. Good man. Generous. Cool. Lovely. Wonderful. Calming. Creative. Brought light to the world. 

Best of the best. Loving spirit. One of a kind. A fine man. A blessing.

The world was a kinder, sweeter, and brighter place with Norman in it.

Gift from the Father.

Lifelong friend Rick, has a great story from after they both went off to different colleges. “I would get letters from Norman and rather than purchase stamps he discovered that a S&H trading stamp or Green Stamp would work just as well! A best friend forever ingrained in my memory.

Amazing and talented man. He definitely made his mark on the world.”

Almost every correspondence received mentioned with awe our relationship.  Just before Norman moved out of this world, Jeanne wrote, “your love for each other and your love of God are one in the same.” This is why our relationship was repeatedly mentioned, divine love is what we knew and shared. Our love came from God, not us. We were/are a perfect (whole, complete) match. For our 24 years together I am most grateful. 

Norman was/is my needle (1 in a million) and my haystack, as all, as all could be. Our best discovery was/is "God is Love" 1 John 4:16, and so are we. 

Normans children Wendy, Robbie and Michael, and grandchildren Gunnar, Brooks, Elise, Maisey, Gates, Parker, Eva and James and children’s spouses Kirk, Heather and Lexi, were the light of his life. 

Jesus was the most humble and productive man on earth. To me Norman was right behind him. 

Norman, an engineer, along with his business partner Harry, also an engineer, in 1986 started Coastal Technologies Inc. I am in awe of what Norman and Harry built from scratch. Have a look: www.cti-sc.com

In his avocation, Norman went from abstract sculpture, to functional art, to Children at Play, life-size bronze sculptures of children. Norman was an artist his whole life. Plus he would make what would solve any problem at home, work and other places like the local rowing dock. The last of his art was, mobiles based on a stabile.

“We are all sculptors, working at various forms, moulding and chiseling thought.” MBE, SH 248:13-15

Norman is the strongest man I will ever know. As industrious and interesting as the day is long. He was a precious  husband, for whom my love is as total as it gets. Thank you Norman,  for being you, and for our sacred life together. 

Loving you always, 

Cheryl