Until the end and always doing it his way, Norman Sweet of Salt Spring Island, BC, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, with family by his side. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and lawnmowers.
Born in Sutton, Quebec, Norm was the son of Dwight Norman Sweet and Ruth Hawley Longeway, brother to Roberta (Bresee) and Donald. A fourth-generation Sweet of Valley View Farm in the Eastern Townships, he married Maida McDonald More on October 11, 1958, and together they raised four children. In 1962, Norm brought his agricultural expertise to McGill’s MacDonald College Farm in Ste- Anne-de-Bellevue, eventually trading Quebec winters for Island life in 1981.
On Salt Spring, Norm joined Gulf Island Window Cleaners and later “retired” into full-time hobbyism: fixing tractors, repairing lawnmowers, and hosting legendary garage sales. He was rarely far from his tools, his shop, or his next wisecrack. Just as iconic were his John Deere cap, grey work suit, plaid jacket, and Scotch Mints.
He is survived by his children Laurie (Bobby), Allison, Cindy (Bryan), and Derek (predeceased Dominica); six grandchildren; two greatgrandchildren; and extended family and friends across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Also dearly included are Caroline Beaulieu (Grant), who were like family to Norm.
To know Norm was to collect stories—some wild, some weird, and most unrepeatable in polite company. Norm never failed to leave an (life long) impression.
We’ll remember him the way he would’ve wanted: with humour, heart, and a good story shared.
The family thanks Dr. Woodley for his unwavering care and gentle presence, always, and we wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to the incredible caregivers at Lady Minto Hospital, Island Health, and Embrace for their kindness, patience, and support.
A celebration of life is TBD, donations may be made to Lady Minto Hospital in lieu of flowers.
Sorry to hear of your loss Derek.