Obituary of Norm Daykin

Norm Daykin, born Norman William Daykin, surrounded by family went to be with his Lord early September 05, 2011. Norm was born November 02, 1927 with his twin sister Gladys in the family farm house on Dewdney Trunk. He grew up, went to school, worked the farm with his Dad, married and raised his family in Maple Ridge. In fact Norm lived 81 of his almost 84 years on the property his grandfather purchased in 1915. Norm is survived by his loving wife of 61 years June and daughter Helen (Steve) sons, Ernie (Judy), Roy, Gord (Diane) and Ken (Sherry) His grandchildren Nicole, Richard (Amanda) Christine (Ryan), Michael (Dana), Halley, Pamela (Brent) Jennifer (Troy) Ashley and Nathan. As well as great grandchildren Joshua, Caleb, Tasia, Lucas, and Katie. Norm is also survived by his elder brother Lawrence. Norm often spoke about his growing early years in Haney, working on the farm, adventures that he had with his brother. He was a great source of historical tidbits of the early years of Maple Ridge. Norm was known for his ready smile and infectious laugh…well like more a giggle. People always felt a wee bit happier with the day after Norm went his way. In 1949 a young lady from Edmonton stole Norm’s heart when she arrived at Burnett Fellowship Baptist to help in Sunday School. On August 16, 1950 wedding bells rang in Edmonton for Norm and June as they became husband and wife. Norm was a true BC boy and he brought his bride back to Maple Ridge to live in on the farm. He worked the farm with his Dad, raising chickens and milking cows until 1956. That is when he went to work as a milk tester for the Department of Agriculture and the Dairy Herd Improvement Association. After 2 years in the Chilliwack /Agassiz area it was back to Haney and Pitt Meadows to do the milk testing for the many dairy herds in the area. Once his field testing days were over he worked in the lab in Burnaby and finally the last three years commuting weekly to Victoria. After 31 enjoyable years Norm retired and enjoyed many years of gardening and woodworking….whether at his place or one of the kids. He was always ready to lend a hand or share in the bountiful harvest of his garden. What that greenhouse and garden could produce whether it was flowers or veggies was a true testament to Norm’s “Green Thumb” Burnett Fellowship Baptist was a large part of Norm’s life as well…from 1937 right to recent months. He served on the Board of Deacons as well as following his dad as the treasurer….he served in one or both or those roles for close to 40 years. He also served as an usher, a greeter, gardener and often the general handyman. He loved his church family and gave generously of his time and talents to support on whatever way he could. Norm was proud of his family as well….he took great pleasure in sitting in his recliner watching first the grandkids and then the great grand kids play and laugh. He was also proud of his deep family roots in Maple Ridge …..his grandpa Hampton arriving in 1879 and then grandpa Daykin in 1915. He was not afraid to share his thoughts on how he felt things were going in town and how the elected folks could get it a bit better. Dad was a great role model as a husband, dad and grandpa…We will miss dearly his sense of humor and ready smile, his sage advice, his quiet calm presence that was such a sense of security and well being. Celebration of Norm’s Life : the family invites you to a service to be held at 2 pm on Friday September 9,2011 at Burnett Fellowship Baptist 20939 123 Ave. In lieu of flowers a donation to Burnett Fellowship in Norm’s name would be appreciated. A BIG Heart Felt Thank you to the doctors and nursing staff at Ridge Meadows Hospital, Emergency and 2 West wards. Your professional and caring attention for Dad’s care in his final days was outstanding, To the BC Ambulance and Maple Ridge Fire Service the family’s appreciation as well for your assistance in Dad’s time of need. You looked after Dad with care and dignity …….We cannot thank you enough!