It is with great sadness that the family of Norman Gustafson announce his passing on November 25th, 2025 at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre following a lengthy battle with cancer. Norman was born on April 9th, 1940 in St. James, MB and was the youngest of 6 siblings. Although he was the baby of the family, Norman formed close relationships with his siblings and their families. Norman was especially close with his sister Audrey and her family and made many memories fishing, hunting and camping at Shebandowan. Norman worked for many years as a welder/fitter. He took great pride in his work and his greatest work achievement was building the Pic River bridge.
He was predeceased by his parents Peter and Mary Gustafson, brothers Tom (Barb), George (Alma), and Gerald (Marya), sisters Viola (Norman) and Audrey (Leonard) and his wife Diana Gustafson. He was also predeceased by his nephew David and nieces Greta and Joanne.
Norman was a proud papa and spent many hours attending sporting events and concerts. Everyone knew when Papa was at a soccer game because of his bird whistle that was one of a kind. Norman also spent many years helping and watching his son Eric perform as Daylin James. He could be found near the front of the audience with a smile on his face at every performance, proudly wearing his “security” shirt. Norman also enjoyed fishing and hunting with his son Michael and nephew Leonard and would share many stories from those special trips. Norman was a die-hard fan of the Thunder Bay North Stars and met many friends at the arena. He also enjoyed spending Wednesday evenings at Thunder City Speedway watching the races with his best friend Rick.
Norman is survived by his loving wife, Corinne, who he would often refer to as his angel. Together they shared 37 wonderful years and Corinne was always by his side – especially during his final years when his health was declining. Norman will be missed by his sons Michael (Suzanne), Eric (Don) and bonus son Rick. Norman was a proud and devoted Papa and will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Jesse (Amber), Jamie-Lynn (Kyle), Jenna (Ryan) and Daylin (Lisa). Norman was also a proud Papa Gus to his great-grandchildren Logan, Norman, Piper, Annie, Vayda, Colton, Torrin and Bradie. He will also be missed by brother in laws Brian(Carita), Rex, Alf (Barb) and sister in law Gale (Larry). Norman also leaves behind his nieces, nephews and their families.
If there was one thing that Norman was most proud of – it was his family and he made it known to us every time we saw him. Whether it was family breakfast at Mike and Sue’s, holiday gatherings at the Kuzmych house, or at one of the many family birthday parties – Norman would always look around, sit back with a smile on his face and say “this is what it’s all about.”
Norman faced every day with a smile, whether it was a good day or a bad day and he never took any of those days for granted. Although we are left with a hole in our hearts, we will get through these tough days together as a family -just as you would want. We are so proud of you Papa, you put up a tremendous fight. We will continue to laugh and share your legacy with our children, after all “What’s life if you can’t laugh?”
Cremation has taken place and there will be a private funeral mass at a later date.
The family would like to thank Dr. Haggarty, Dr. Faghih, Dr. Hartford and Dr. Kwan. Thank you to his nurses Rhea, Crystal, McKenzy, Julie, AJ and the rest of his nurses from 2C who provided exceptional care and compassion to Norman and our family during his final days. We would also like to thank the nurses from St. Joseph’s Hospital and the nurses and Psw’s that attended to him at home.
