Ralph Norm Channell

Ralph Norman Channell, "Norm" (Captain USN Retired) On the morning of October 11th, 2014 Norm passed away from cancer at the age of 80; while being attend to by his family and caregivers at Sunrise Assisted Living in Carmel California. Norm was born November 4th, 1933 in Agawam, Massachusetts. He was the first child of four children, from Ralph Channell and Ruth Channell. Norm grew up on the family farm raising his own bull calf and later working in the tobacco fields. During his High School years he and friends formed a band called the Outhouse Five Minus One. After graduating from Agawam High School Norm went directly into the United States Naval Academy. While there he continued with his music by playing saxophone in the NA 10 dance band. After graduation came a distinguished career as a US Naval Intelligence Officer. Norm served tours in Viet Nam and a tour in Korea. He was the Assistant US Naval Attaché in Moscow, during the Soviet Brezhnev era. In his naval career he was awarded several distinguished metals, including the Purple Heart. Upon retirement from the Navy, Norm joined the staff of the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California as an Adjunct Professor Specializing in soviet affairs. Norm settled here in the Big Sur / Monterey area where he involved in the community, joining several organizations and causes. He loved this area and called it home for many years. Norm was awarded the honorable distinction of veteran of the year in 2011. He was active in MOAA and WAC (World Affairs Council), While on MOAA Norm served as President and Vice President. Norm was also a part of the Big Sur coastal committee and he helped out the Mid Coast fire department. Norm was a driving force for the new Veteran's cemetery here in the Monterey area. This is where his final resting place will be once completed in 2016. Norm is survived by Dorcas Channell and their two sons, Ralph Channell and Harold Channell, Ralph's wife Patricia Channell, Harold's Partner Scott Phillips. Ralph and Pat's two children, Chris and Jenny, Jenny's husband Steven Ott. His brother Gerald Channell, two sisters, Ruth Kershaw, and Anne Channell. Also His long time friend Elizabeth Ward who brought a smile to his face every time he heard her voice and one newly born Great Grandson, Hesley Ott. Memorial Services will be held at Mission Mortuary, 450 Camino El Estero, Monterey, CA this Saturday the 18th at 11:00am. In Lieu of flowers please send donations to the Central Coast Veterans Cemetery Foundation, 220 12th Street, Marina, CA 93933. Special thanks to all of his caregivers and staff at Sunrise Assisted Living in Carmel, who were so very good to our father, truly exceptional and truly appreciated. Also a special thanks to the wonderful team at Heartland Hospice who helped with dads passing.