December 2, 1927 - November 21, 2021
Our beloved mother, Norma Sevcov, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2021, just 10 days short of her 94th birthday. She went to join her beloved Johnny who predeceased her on January 18, 2020.
She is survived by her 3 daughters, Gayle (Jim), Donna and Karen (Charles); 6 grandchildren Brandon (Christine), Breonna (Steve), Courtenay (Djimith), Brett, Kirsten (Jimmy), and Brittany (Chad); 3 step grandchildren Casey, Adam and Laina.
In addition, she leaves behind 11 great grandchildren all of whom loved their Nona. Callum, Gavin and Finley, Mica, Bodhi, Djibril, Dejan, Chase, Charlie, Jameson and Kaia. She will be sadly missed by the Luvisotto family, and her many longtime friends.
Norma was born on a snowy day, on December 2, 1927 in Nanaimo. Her parents emigrated from Italy in the early 1900's and she had 4 siblings all of whom predeceased her. She grew up in Five Acres (Harewood) and was a proud and genuine native daughter of Nanaimo.
Her first job was at Carter's Bakery where she developed her amazing baking skills. She also worked at Jean Burns and remained friends with many of the "original Jean Burns girls".
For many years, Norma was busy raising her 3 girls. She kept them meticulously dressed, often making their clothes. She was involved with the Harewood Ladies Auxiliary and was a long-time member of the Felice Cavallotti Lodge. She also belonged to a sewing club which consisted of more laughing than sewing! She continued her friendship with these ladies until the present.
Norma met Johnny at the Pygmy Dance hall when he asked her to dance. They both loved dancing and they could really jitterbug together. After a short courtship they married on November 6, 1948 and had 3 daughters. Their marriage lasted for a wonderful 72 years.
At 40, Norma returned to school and after graduation, found work at the Nanaimo Daily Free Press in Classified Advertising. Her warm smile and welcoming ways made her a loved and respected member of the newspaper community. Norma remained working at the newspaper until her retirement at age 66.
In later years, Norma and Johnny enjoyed travelling, visiting many fascinating countries, including a trip touring Europe in a converted school bus. They enjoyed golfing and would go on golf holidays with friends. She spent many sunny days at Departure Bay beach in her favourite spot along with Johnny and the "girls".
In her spare time she loved spending time with her grandchildren. They all loved going to Nona and Nono's where they were spoiled with Pop Shop drinks and Nona's famous home baking. It was a special night when they had a sleepover at Nona and Nono's.
Norma was a wonderful cook and hostess and could throw together a fabulous dinner at the drop of a hat. She was "the glue" that cemented our family, nothing was more important and she instilled this in her daughters. She was kind, loving, always smiling and above all a classy lady.
Mom had an amazing memory of old downtown remembering the original buildings and businesses. When out for a drive in the old neighbourhoods, she would comment about who used to live in the homes she passed, often telling a little anecdote about the former owners. She loved going for a drive, always wanting to end up at Departure Bay with a coffee or an ice cream enjoying the view and the sunset.
Thank you to her caregivers, Isabel and Kamal, who were like family members. Your kind and caring ways made it possible for Norma to stay in her home. A special thanks to Shannon for her never ending love and care for Norma.
A family celebration will be held at a later date for Mom at Qualicum Beach, a favourite spot for picnics and watching the sunset, when all the family can be together. Norma will be greatly missed by all but mostly by her 3 girls.
Always lovingly remembered and in our hearts. We love you Mom and Nona.