Norm spoke these words at his brother’s memorial. They are words that Norman lived by:
“Remember that life is short.
Don’t waste it.
Don’t take small bites.
Swallow life whole. Devour Life.
Be all you can be.
Be larger than life.”
Family, - Early Life, - Career, - Interests, - Bursary, - Travels, - Photo Gallery
Book of
Condolences
Wicks, Norman Craig. Died
on Wednesday, November 20, 2002. Norman was born in White Rock, BC in 1952 to
Jean and Russell Wicks. Family was important to Norman. The tragedies of losing
both his parents and his two brothers, Wade and Stephen, in recent years brought
great sadness, but also moved him to value every moment and all the richness
that life can offer. Norman will be greatly missed by his partner, Joyce Upex;
his sister Susan Stitt; his brother-in-law, Robert Stitt; his sister-in-law,
Patricia Wicks; his nephews, Steven and Patrick Wicks, his great-nephews, Taylor
and Ryland Wicks; his many loving friends and extended family.
Life for Norman was as
large as his heart and filled with people and adventures around the globe. From
a rich childhood on the family hobby farm with pet skunks and horses and raids
on the neighbouring strawberry fields,
Norman’s work and studies
took him and his partner, Joyce, to Australia, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand,
along the coast of British Columbia and into the northern regions of the province.
Norm was fascinated by aboriginal people, art and culture. Norm and Joyce had recently
begun plans for a cross country motorbike trip of Australia with friends Gordon
and Denise Milne (Joyce and Denise were to drive the support van).
Norman was a long-time
resident of Vanderhoof, BC and principal of two schools in the Nechako School
District. He was one of the top educators in northern BC; a highly educated,
articulate, sensitive teacher. Norman received his PhD in Education from the
University of Tasmania, Australia, where his research contributed to theories
of educative leadership in indigenous schools in Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
He received his Masters degree from the University of Victoria in studies on
approaches to teaching in learning in intercultural contexts. Graduating from
Simon Fraser University with a degree in English and Sociology, Norman’s early
career centred on working with youth at risk.
Norman was a person who
loved life. One could find him in the backwoods, honing his flyfishing skills
or standing in front of an international audience presenting theories on leadership.
His connection to people and with the natural world that he loved so much came
from a great passion for life and learning. He is remembered for his compassion
and integrity. Norman was known as a person who inspired those around him and
was always there for them.
School District No. 91
has set up a bursary in memory of Norm Wicks. In lieu of flowers, donations
may be made to The Norm Wicks Bursary, being established to celebrate Norman’s
life and his practice of giving a helping hand to youth. The bursary will recognize
excellence in life and education. Donations
to the bursary can be made at any branch of the Royal Bank of Canada to the following
account: .
Gordon Milne delivered a touching eulogy at NVSS and at Mapes Elementary
A message from friends
Transit Number : 07840
Account Number: 100 0462
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