Normand Aurele Dezainde

Normand (Norm) Aurele Dezainde Sr.

June 13, 1933 - May 9, 2025

With profound sadness, we share the peaceful passing of Normand (Norm) Aurele Dezainde Sr. on May 9, 2025, in Dundas, Ontario. In his 92nd year, Norm left this world with the same dignity and grace that defined his life.

Born in Magog, Quebec, to Donat and Gisele (née Robert) Dezainde, Norm grew up in a large, close-knit family. Predeceased by brothers Real (Anita), Rejean (Celine), Richard, Marcel (Denyse), and sisters Margerite and Claudette. He is survived by siblings Yolande, Robert (Nicole), René (Dyane), and Hélène (Roger).

Norm’s heart was big enough to embrace a sprawling family. With his beloved wife, Alberte “Betty” (née Audet), married on May 29, 1975, they wove together two families. Survived by children Norman Jr. (Christine), Cathy, Suzanne, Linda (Ed), stepson Daniel (Darlene), and predeceased by son Robert (1991) and stepson Piere (1988) (Thalia). His legacy shines on through 13 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

A man of ambition and skill, Norm’s early years on a Quebec farm and as a logger shaped his work ethic. Certified as a Boilermaker and Hoisting Engineer, he oversaw major construction projects across Canada—water towers, oil tankers, and industrial furnaces—always with safety and precision. Yet his true greatness laid in his quiet kindness, patient wisdom, and soft-spoken warmth.

For over 50 years, Betty was the love of his life and his partner in every adventure, from small tasks to grand dreams. Their life revolved around nature: chopping wood, camping, fishing the Great Lakes and deep-sea waters in Florida and Costa Rica. As retirees, they ran Le Vacancier Chalets in Belleterre, Quebec, opening their doors to travellers and loved ones. Norm’s backyard BBQs sparked joy and laughter at countless gatherings of family friends and neighbours featuring his famous beer pancakes with his favourite Quebec maple syrup.

A passionate fan of the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Blue Jays, Norm lived with zest. His home was a beacon of generosity, welcoming all. He credited Betty for their extraordinary life and faced his end with courage, choosing Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). His final words—“Continue with your life and be honest”—echo his lifelong values. His lessons of patience, integrity, and love will endure in all who knew him.

We are deeply grateful to the nurses and staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital, 7th Floor Surgical, for their compassionate care.

Per Norm’s wishes, he was cremated on May 15, 2025, with no formal service to follow.