Norman Lindsay Craig, a beloved brother, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 11, 2025, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born in St. Lambert, Canada on September 19, 1940, Norm grew up in a close-knit community where there were no strangers and friendships flourished.  His family later moved to Ridgewood, New Jersey where he attended high school. Active in their church, Norm’s mother played the organ and the family formed strong bonds within the community. He went on to earn a degree in electrical engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY. Norm’s career in the Navy took him and his wife, Carol, to Texas and California before they eventually settled in Virginia to raise their family. Throughout his life Norm was a true gentleman, respected by all who knew him. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering integrity shone through in every interaction. Always eager to connect with others, he was ready to lend a helping hand and was driven by a deep passion for helping people reach their full potential. He was a hardworking man who rarely took time to rest, constantly immersed in a project or eager to teach someone the value of doing things the right way.

As a distinguished Navy pilot, Norm rose through the ranks to achieve the rank of Commander. His unwavering commitment to excellence and strong sense of duty earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Deeply proud of his service, he regarded the Navy as a pivotal chapter in his life’s journey. After retiring from the Navy, he continued his distinguished career at NATO where he brought the same integrity and dedication to his second career.

Norm was a loving husband to Carol for over 51 years before her passing during the pandemic, an event that left him heartbroken. Despite his grief Norm carried on, cherishing the memories they made together. He was a devoted father to their two sons, Chris (wife Allison) and Jeff (wife Jacki). He instilled in them the values of hard work, honesty, and empathy and showed them what it meant to be great fathers themselves. He took immense pride in his five grandchildren, Noah, Lu, Brennan, Holden, and Finley, often beaming with joy as he spoke about each of them. He was known as the “baby whisperer” when they were little and later, his treasured collection of Legos kept them happily engaged.

Beyond his family, Norm had a strong passion for genealogy, dedicating time to preserving his family’s history for future generations. He often took the opportunity to quiz others about their family connections, playfully asking, “Who’s your second cousin, once removed?” Norm also enjoyed gardening, spending hours weeding, planting, and admiring the results of his efforts. His hobbies included collecting antiques, Royal Coronation ware, stamps, and Wedgwood, and it was rare for him to pass an antique store without finding a new treasure to add to his collections. He also had a hearty appreciation for a good meal – though it was a must that it didn’t include onions, green peppers, or, under any circumstance, mushrooms.

Norm had a love for music, passed down to him by his parents. His home was filled with the sounds of classical music, which he would often be heard whistling along to.

One of Norm’s greatest joys was spending his summers at the cottage in Vermont. While he appeared to be constantly working on upkeep jobs, the truth was that he celebrated each moment there, taking time to wave at a neighbor, reminisce about old stories, or share a scotch while enjoying the view.

He was also a passionate traveler, exploring the world with Carol and family, appreciating the beauty and diversity that each destination offered. A life-long learner, he also soaked in every word of instruction during his Chautauqua Institute summer sessions.

Norm is survived by his two brothers, Wayne in Charlottesville, VA and Bruce in Ridgewood, NJ.  He was predeceased by his sister, Lynn, and brother Hal.

A celebration of Norm’s life will be held in North Hero, Vermont in the summer, with family and friends invited to honor and remember him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or the DAV (Disabled American Veterans).

We are forever indebted to the caregivers who helped support Norm as life became more challenging, providing him with the care and compassion he deserved.

Norm’s memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and friends.