Obituary of Richard S. Norem

Richard S. Norem, 71, passed away August 18, 2018 in Olympia, Washington, his home of 30 years.  He was born December 15, 1946 to Edith Augusta Marrs and Randolph Norem in Seattle, Washington. 

 

Rich was a 1965 graduate of Mount Rainier High School in Des Moines, Washington; and earned a Bachelor’s degree in 1972 from Central Washington University, and Master’s Degree from Whitworth College.

 

He dedicated his life to helping children through his long career as an elementary school counselor in the Central Valley and then North Thurston Public School Districts. 

 

Rich inspired others around him to take risks and try new things.  He was always able to find the positive in situations and people, and spent his entire life trying to help others. He prided himself on being a family man and was so proud of his son and daughter. He loved planning trips for his family and friends to places they would never have ventured on their own.

 

He loved to cook for those he loved and was famous for his smoked salmon, pickles, and the raspberry jam that he brought with him wherever he went. Rich was happiest in the tropics where he loved to lay on the beach with a mystery novel in hand or snorkel in sparkling waters of the Cayman Islands or Kauai. He loved fishing, music, and theater.

 

Richard is survived by his son, Christopher R. Norem; daughter, Kate M. (Norem) Schueler; six grandchildren; brother, Michael Norem; and sister, Polly (Sandra) Harvey.

 

A private family service will be held.  Memorial donations may be made to Interfaith Works, P.O. Box 1221, Olympia, WA 98507.

 

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