Norman Mooney

MOONEY: Norman

July 1, 1920 – March 6, 2024

The death of Norman Mooney, aged 103 years, of Imperial, SK occurred at Long Lake Valley Integrated Facility, Imperial, SK on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

Norman was born in Brandon Manitoba on July 1, 1920. Not a lot of details of Norman’s birth and infancy is clear. However at a year and a half years old he was adopted by William and Olive Mooney into the Mooney family, to live on the Mooney farm 4 miles west of highway 2 on the Norman’s favourite church story may have been when he was seen sliding down his parent’s porch from his upstairs bedroom – so he could escape the church service below. Unknown correction line road. What is clear is that Norman was loved and became fiercely proud of his heritage. Irish by blood or not – Norman lived his Irish identity with pride and vigor. Throughout Norman’s life he was staunchly proud of his adopted identity – adoption was a reason to be proud, grateful, to pass on the strongest of work ethics.

Life on the farm for Norman was busy. Church was an important part of the Mooney family. Although to Norman at the time, parents, minister, and parishioners were watching his grand escape.

Norman attended school at Bermuda School. Reportedly was a good student, when antics like putting shotgun shells in the school stove were not on his mind.

Norman was a proud Veteran. He serviced during the second world war training in Manitoba and Ontario in tank warfare and becoming an excellent mechanic; a skill he always appreciated later as a farmer. For many years, Norman was proudly involved in Imperial Legion, and made sure to participate with other local veterans for many decades in an annual VE Day celebration of piano playing, singing, and pouring of drink.

After discharge Norman found opportunity to employ his Veteran’s Land Benefit to endeavour his lifelong dream of being a farmer. On June 18th1949, Norman and Rachel Cleone Burgess married in Imperial. They settled on the Mooney farm where son David lives to this day. The family and the farm quickly grew, and Norman took on the tasks of farmer, husband, and father. Children - four sons and two daughters, filled the home with delight. Norman and Cleone by all reports ran a “tight ship”, never without some michief, and not always was Dad not present in the mischief himself.

In our local community Norman was one to make his presence felt in meaningful, helpful, and pleasant service. He served many years on R.M. of Big Arm board, where he campaigned for decent roads including to the Mooney Farm. Norman served RollingRidge School Board, and the Imperial Hospital Board, where he joined others in advocating tirelessly to see Imperial with a modern hospital facility.

Norman and Cleone fully retired from active farming in 1991. Their retired years became filled with family, travel, curling, and golf. Norman’s curiosity for life never left him. Until the end - he maintained his ability to meet all with a twinkle in his eye.

Norman was predeceased by sisters Thelma & Elaine; brother William; children Philip; grandchildren Aaron, Eric, and Angela.

He is survived and celebrated by: 5 children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Norman’s final years were in Long Lake Valley Integrated Facility here in Imperial. There his care was exemplary. The family extends their gratitude to the staff for the kindness and attention brought to Norman. Norman remained until the end quick with a smile, a laugh, and a firm handshake intended to let you know his love, support, and gratitude for the joy he found throughout this life.

A Memorial Service was held at Imperial Community Centre, Imperial, SK on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. with Wanda Gustafson officiating. A Memorial Reception followed. Private Family Interment preceded in Imperial Cemetery. For online condolences or tributes please visit: https://fotheringham-mcdougall.com/