Norman Charles Westervelt

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Norman Charles Westervelt, born January 14, 1929, went to be with his Savior on March 10, 2023. Norman was known by many names over his well lived life –husband, son, brother, dad, Uncle Norm, Stormin’ Norman, Papa, big Papa, and most recently, Mr. Bike Man.

Norm graduated from Southside High School in Elmira. He married his high school sweetheart, Joan. He proudly served his country during the Korean War, working on the Guided Missile Program.

His continued passion for learning lead him from the Army to IBM where he worked for 37 years, beginning as a Field Engineer and ending his career as a Technical Writer.

Norm had many interests and continued to reinvent himself through the years. When first retiring, he began to restore antique tractors. He was a fixture at local parades, fairs, and events for many years – proudly exhibiting his 1934 Plymouth and 1937 Silver King.

He was a collector of hymn books, antique tools, small engines, as well as tractors. His love and respect for history led him to travel with his family to Hawaii in 2015 to donate his uncle Stanley’s journal, chronicling his time on the USS Arizona, to the National Park at Pearl Harbor.

When Norm saw a need for bikes in the community, he partnered with Tioga County Rural Ministries to reclaim and restore used bikes for children in the area. Over 700 children benefited from a bike provided in this manner.

Norm’s heart to serve and to give was driven by his love for Jesus. He desired to make an impact and glorify God with all he met. His faith was unshakeable, even in the hardest of times. Norm’s family all reflect his faith.

He is predeceased by his wife, Joan, parents LeRoy and Mildred Westervelt, his brothers and sister, Dean, Bill, Jack, and Doris.

Norm is survived by his children, Brenda (Bruce) Georgi, Carol (Roy) Hall, Mary (David) Klase, and Norm (Jeni) Westervelt. His 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren join their parents in missing their papa, but know they will see him again in Heaven.

The family will receive friends on THURSDAY, March 16th from 10 – 11 am at the First Baptist Church, Whig St. Newark Valley.   A celebration of Norm’s life will follow at 11am. Norm will be laid to rest at the convenience of the family in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Elmira.

Norm is a man who choose to make a difference in this world. We know the words from Matthew 26:23, “Well done, good and faithful servant” were spoken to him as he entered Heaven.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tioga County Rural Ministries, 143 North Avenue, Owego, NY 13827, in loving memory of Norman.

Memories and condolences may be shared on Norman’s guestbook at www.macphersonfh.com.