Obituary of Norman Parrish

June 21, 1944 ~ November 6, 2023

It is with profound sadness that the family of Norman Parrish announces his unexpected passing on Monday, November 6, 2023 at the age of 79 years.

Norman is lovingly survived by his children: Nathan (Alison) Parrish, Wayne Parrish, Judith Parrish (Tony Amaro); grandchildren: Scarlett, Geneece; siblings: Leonard (Susan) Parrish, Susan (Bill) Yaskiew, Alfred Parrish; mother of his children; Judith Bishop, as well as other relatives & friends. Norman was predeceased by his parents: Fred & Ethel Parrish.

Norman Parrish, alias “The Snowbird Birder” was born in Winnipeg Manitoba. He was a reserved and reflective man who enjoyed daily walks and birdwatching. In the spring and summer, he would spot and document local bird findings and then send his bird counts to worldwide amateur bird associations. He loved warm weather and would continue his birding data collections during his international travels in his retirement years.

Norman devoted his young life to The Canadian Armed Forces where he met his future wife Judith, who also was a member of the Armed Forces. Both of them served in the Middle East as Peacekeepers. Together they attended the University of Calgary to become teachers. Norman taught Junior and Senior High students in the Calgary Catholic Board of Education. His teaching strengths included art, shop, math, and English Literature.

On his off time, he was a devoted father to his three children and their recreational sports. Some of the children’s memories with their father include attending the Calgary Cannons baseball games, watching hockey games, tobogganing, ice skating, visiting museums, going to libraries, making pancakes, and summer holidays at their grandparents’ home in Bonnyville. He could never get enough of watching baseball. When attending games, he would bring his own scoresheets, wear a ball cap, enjoy a cold beer, and eat sunflower seeds while cheering in the bleachers with his kids.

People would know him for his kindness, friendly talks, fun travel stories, birding, art work and his mentorship to young people. He will be forever dearly missed by his family and friends. May you rest in peace “Snowbird Birder”.

To honor Norman’s request cremation has taken place and no formal funeral service will be held.