Norman David Schwartz

Born to Benjamin Jack Schwartz and Dorthy Meier in 1941, ‘Stormin’ Norman was a kind and considerate person who loved people.  He was always engaging and interested in others and he never forgot a name or a face once you crossed his path.  His family, friends, and neighbors were his universe, and even though it was small, it was genuine and sincere.  

He grew up in the North end of Tacoma and graduated from Stadium high school. He worked in the men’s clothing business with his father Ben who owned a clothing store called ‘Berts’ in downtown Tacoma and then later moved it to Federal Way.  After that, he worked for many years at J.C. Penney where he finally retired.  He was a person who loved all sports, especially golf and was a very good player in his younger days. In the ’70s and 80’s he was married and lived in Fircrest where he helped raise his 3 children David, Alan, and Betsy who along with his 3 granddaughters were the pride of his life. 

Everyone who knew Norm knew he wasn’t a person to overthink things or worry too much. His ‘it will all be ok’ attitude was refreshing and mentoring and he had the overall toughness to endure anything and everything life could throw at him.  Most notably in 2000 he suffered a massive heart failure and died several times in one day only to be continually brought back to life and then spend a week in a coma.  When he came to he was told he would have permanent brain and heart damage and would only live another 2 years needing daily assistance.  Norm simply said ‘that’s not an option’ and with his positive attitude, strength, and perseverance he was back at work in 6 months and lived another 20 years on his own up until the time of his death.  

‘Stormin’ Norman understood life is a precious gift and keeping it simple and accepting ‘what is’ was the key.  He never complained, never asked for anything, and never gave up.  He was a person of great will and character.  We will all miss you Norm, and thank you for everything you gave us, taught us, and left with us.  You were an amazing father, friend, and teacher in your own special way and will forever be missed.  We LOVE you! 

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