We mourn the loss of Richard A. Norman, a remarkable man who filled many roles in our lives: father, stepfather, grandfather and great-grandfather. He embraced each role with unwavering character and grace. He helped build a family bound not just by blood, but by love. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the family he nurtured across generations.
Born in Seattle on Aug. 2, 1934, Richard spent his working years as a machinist and mechanic, first in the Marine Corps and then as his profession. Those who knew him remember him most for being an aficionado of classic cars, a master woodworker, an avid bridge and cribbage player, and a grill master.
After many years working at Metro in Tukwila, Richard met Marcia Brooks in 1980. They married in March 1987.
He is survived by his sons, David and Daniel Norman; stepson and daughter-in-law John and Tricia Brooks; stepdaughter Heather Brooks; and former daughter-in-law Shelley Hansen. He was preceded in death by Sandra L. Norman and Marcia Norman.
He is also survived by grandchildren Erin Norman; Ryan and Rhiannon Norman; Rebecca North; Ali and Loren Bates; Spenser and Jessica Brooks; Maria and Josh Wright; Sasha Brooks; Adeline and Sylvie Denton; and by his great-grandchildren, Dorothy Bates and Lucian Stratton.
Donations in Richard's memory may be made to the Catholic Community Services Thurston County Senior Transport Program.
Checks may be made payable to Catholic Community Services of Western Washington and mailed to:
Catholic Community Services of Western Washington
100 23rd Ave. S
Seattle, WA 98144-2302
Please write "In memory of Richard Norman – Thurston Senior Transport Program" in the memo line. Tax ID: 91-1585652.
Services will be held Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Centralia Community Church of God, 3320 Borst Ave., Centralia, WA 98531.
