NORSTROM
A true gentleman, Dale Eric Norstrom of Bluffton, Alberta, passed away peacefully on the evening of Sunday, December 12, 2021 at the age of 85 years, lovingly surrounded by his family.
Dale was born in Wetaskiwin, Alberta to Gertie and Harry Norstrom on November 29, 1936. He grew up near the Battle River and attended school at Lakedell. After leaving school, Dale worked a variety of jobs. One such job allowed him to travel throughout the country. His time in Tuktoyaktuk was among his favourite places that his work took him to. He found the landscape and wildlife to be fascinating, and had so many stories and pictures to show for it. In 1958, Dale was joined in holy matrimony to Dorothy Della Strain. His career took them to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan where their first child, Carol Marie, was born. Deciding that they could no longer be gypsies with a small child, they returned to Alberta and settled in Bluffton. Dale then took a position at the B.A. plant. In 1962 they added their only son, Murray Dale, to their family. The family grew again in 1964 with the addition of another daughter, Leanne Gayl. Dale and Dorothy purchased the farm from Dorothy’s parents in 1967, and Dale found his true passion in life … farming. Like any man that has had to start a farm from square one, Dale had to work various jobs off the farm to keep his dream of farming alive. Together with his wife, Dorothy, not only did the farm stay alive, it thrived. With their hard work and dedication, and their love and respect of the land and animals, Dale and Dorothy had truly found their purpose. In 1971 the family became complete with the arrival of their third daughter, Kari Jo.
Although Dale’s stature could be intimidating to some, for those lucky enough to know him, what really shone through was his love, kindness, and respect he had for others. A man of great integrity, he would quickly jump at the opportunity to help a family member, neighbour, or friend. Dale was a huge sports fan, following hockey, baseball, and curling. He also faithfully followed the chuckwagon races, keeping stats in a notebook. Dale was a master cribbage player, and rarely lost a game. If you could ever beat him with a hand of crib, it was something to be celebrated! Dale’s yearly camping and fishing trips with his son were adventures he truly treasured. Of all the hats he wore, that of Grandpa was, by far, his favourite. The addition of his cherished grandchildren made Dale’s already huge heart swell even more with love and pride. His great grandson, Marshall, was the apple of his eye, and he treasured every moment he got to spend with him. Dale was a gentle giant, a true gentleman who lived a life filled with the old-school values of integrity, love, honour, and respect.
We are so grateful for the man that Dale was … and so honoured that we got to call him “Dad”.
Dale will be lovingly remembered and immensely missed by his family: his son, Murray Norstrom of Bluffton; and his three daughters, Carol (Dave) Kreutz of Bluffton; Leanne (Bill) Coleman of Bluffton; and Kari Norstrom also of Bluffton; in addition to five cherished grandchildren: Nathan (Jeanette), Tanner, Ashley (Travis), Riley, and Kelsey (Murray); and one precious great grandson, Marshall. He will also be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by two brothers, Gene (Winnie) Norstrom of Rimbey; and Harvey Norstrom of Edmonton; and his sister, Velma Capaniuk of Alder Flats; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, other family members, and many close friends. Dale was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Dorothy in 2007; one sister, Rita, his brother-in-law, Jim Capaniuk; and his sister-in-law, LaVerne Norstrom.
A Family Celebration of Dale’s Life was held at a later date. If friends desire, memorial tributes in his memory may be made directly to the charity of one’s choice. Condolence messages may be forwarded to the family by visiting: www.ofc-ltd.ca
Cremation Arrangements for the Late Dale Eric Norstrom entrusted to the care of
