Obituary of Norma Joan Crang

CRANG (nee Cummings): With her husband Bob by her side and after a courageous battle with cancer, Norma Joan Crang of Brandon passed away at the Assiniboine Centre on Thursday, January 21, 2016. Norma was born on June 18, 1942 in Trail, British Columbia to Norman and Irene Cummings. The Cummings family moved from Trail to Vista, Manitoba when Norma was 9 and then to Brandon when Norma was 13. She attended a one room school in Vista and later attended St. Michael's Academy in Brandon. At the age of 16 she met the love of her life, Bob Crang, whom she married three years later on December 2, 1961 at St. George's Anglican Church. They were inseparable for over 54 years. Prior to being married, Norma worked at Brown's Drug store where she met her lifelong friend, Marjorie Watson. Norma and Bob welcomed their first child, Rob, into their lives in 1962. It was at this time that Norma decided to remain at home and dedicate her life to caring for her husband and children, never asking for anything in return. The next 10 years would see the arrival of Alan, Jeff and Susan. Norma selflessly devoted her time to caring for Alan's special needs throughout his life. Unfortunately, Alan passed away in 2014 leaving her heartbroken. Norma also had a very close relationship with her parents, having daily conversations with her mother and always including them in all family events. As the children grew, Norma and Bob worked closely together to build two family homes, helping and encouraging Bob throughout the entire building process. Besides her passion for the nurturing of her family, Norma had several interests including flower and vegetable gardening; cooking and baking; knitting and sewing. She was well known for her Christmas and rhubarb cakes in addition to her mincemeat tarts – a sought after treat during the holiday season. Norma supported Susan in her business as the baker at Scarlatti's - one of the most delicious items on the menu being Norma's cheesecakes. She loved skating, curling, bowling and dancing the night away with Bob. Norma and Bob had such a deep love for each other and this was evident whenever they were seen on the dance floor. Norma had a lifelong love of dogs, often bringing home strays as a child (much to the chagrin of her parents), training and showing Kelly her poodle, as well as owning several Shih Tzus including Suki, Missy and Andy. Norma and Bob enjoyed many camping vacations with their family. As her son Alan was challenged with diabetes, Norma volunteered yearly as a canvasser for the Canadian Diabetes Association. In Norma's last few years, Bob became Norma's "angel on earth" devoting every minute of every day to making her as comfortable as possible, enabling Norma to remain at home until just days before her passing. Norma is survived by her loving husband and soul mate Bob; children Rob, Jeff (Crystal), and Susan; grandchildren Robyn (Jérémie), Sam, Ally, Allegra, Brendan and Marcena; brother-in-law Jim (Irene); sisters-in-law Gladys and Sharon; several aunts and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Norma was predeceased by her son, Alan and grandson, Linden; father and mother, Norman and Irene; brother Keith; father and mother-in-law, Findlater and Marie; brothers-in-law Jack and David; and nephew Keith. A family graveside service was held on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 with Father Chad McCharles officiating. Pallbearers were Rob, Jeff, Susan, Robyn, Sam, and Ally. The family would like to thank all the people who helped Norma throughout her illness and give special thanks to Dr. Johan du Plooy, Cheryl McDonald, RN, Dr. Blaire Turner and Dr. Steven Alberts. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 415-1st Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 2W8. Norma was the most loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend anyone could ask for. She made her house a home and was the centre of her family. She supported her family through thick and thin, encouraged them to be the best people they could be and wished all the happiness in the world for them. She was a precious gem which can never be replaced. -You will be deeply missed and your memory will live on in us forever. -