Obituary of Norman Clifford Goertzen

GOERTZEN – Norman Clifford of Saskatoon, formerly of Swift Current, SK, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at Royal University Hospital at the age of 82. He was born on September 24, 1933 in Morse, SK, to Peter and Sadie Goertzen. For a few years they lived on a farm south of Morse where he started his first year of school. The family then moved to a farm in the Wiebe School District, where he met his wife-to-be. Norman’s early work focused on the family farm and by the age of 16 he was already in the work force where he was employed in a variety of jobs. In February of 1952 he joined Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) and in the fall of that same year was sent to Korea, where he served until November of 1953. Upon his return he married his childhood sweetheart, Eleanor Thiessen, in Herbert, SK, on August 11, 1954. He was then stationed in Calgary, AB, where he joined the Paratroopers and made a total of 17 jumps. In February of 1955 he took his discharge and later that year was employed as a grain buyer, the beginning of a 39 year career with Pioneer Grain. He retired from the position of Division Manger in Winnipeg in 1994 and moved back to Saskatchewan with Eleanor to enjoy a busy retirement of fishing, woodworking and grounds keeping at Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park at Lake Diefenbaker. In 2009 Norman and Eleanor moved to Swift Current, where they stayed until their 2015 move to Saskatoon to be closer to their children. Norman will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his skill as a storyteller, his sense of humor and his generosity. He was well known for his willingness to lend anyone a helping hand. Neighbors often referred to him as “the Mayor” because of his willingness to take charge and do what needed to be done. He took pride in being a member of the Kyle Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. Norman is survived by his loving wife Eleanor, children Doug Goertzen, Keith (Shelley) Goertzen, Glenda Goertzen, and Valerie (Yury) Romance; grandchildren Paul (Sarah) Goertzen, Sarah (Tyler) Goertzen, Janet (Scott) Goertzen, and Natasha Romance; siblings Melinda Fisher and Elsie (Jim) Taves; and many numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Before his passing, he received the happy news of his first great-grandchild being on the way. Norman is predeceased by his parents Peter and Sadie Goertzen; brothers-in-law Joe Fisher, Henry Thiessen and Leonard Thiessen. Norman will be forever missed by his family and friends. A service was held at Parkside Memorial Funeral Home in Swift Current, SK, Monday January 11, 2016 at 2:00 pm with Annette Taylor officiating. Jim Taves read the eulogy. Piano and solo music was provided by Sharon Veer. Memorial donations can be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. For further information or to sign the family book of condolence, visit www.parksidefuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were in care of Parkside Memorial Funeral Home – Ryan Cappelle