Norman Thibodeau
May 5, 1937 ~ July 30, 2024
Norman Elmer Thibodeau, known to many as Norm, passed away on July 30, 2024 at the age of 87 in Gainesville, Florida. Born on May 5, 1937, in Van Buren, Maine, to Felix and Catherine Thibodeau, Norm was a devoted family man.
Norman served in the United States Army, where he was respected for his dedication and hard work. After his military service he moved to Bristol, Connecticut where met the love of his life, Mary Lou Misluck. He embarked on a successful career as a finish carpenter and craftsman. He and Mary Lou relocated to Gainesville, Florida where he worked for MM Parrish for over 29 years building fine custom homes. His skill and meticulous attention to detail were highly sought after and respected by both colleagues and clients.
He shared over 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Mary Lou, who passed before him in 2021. Together, they raised three children: Steve, Catherine, and Wendy. Norm was a loving father not only to his children but also to his daughter-in-law Rebecca. His joy was multiplied by his grandchildren, Zachary and Sydney, and he held a special place in his heart for his grand puppy, Bailey Thibodeau. No matter what, Bailey could get him to smile. Catherine and Rebecca worked together as a caregiver team during these last years as Norman’s Alzheimer’s progressed. Norman was so happy Rebecca is a fantastic cook because cooking is not one of Catherine’s superpowers.
Norm and Mary Lou were part of an Oaks Mall walking group where he formed lasting friendships, particularly with Betty Wolfe and John Overby, who became like family, especially after Mary Lou’s passing. Betty called him nearly every night after Mary Lou passed and brought him his favorite cookies. John picked him up many days of every week and took him to the mall to meet up with the rest of the group. His hobbies included gardening and weekly fishing adventures with Mary Lou in Cedar Key. He took immense pride in his garden, growing fruits and vegetables which he generously shared with family and friends.
Norm is survived by his children Steve Thibodeau (Rebecca) of Ocala, Florida; Catherine Lawton (Randy) of Gainesville, Florida; and Wendy Pledger (Craig) of Fort Myers, Florida. He is survived by grandchildren Zachary Thibodeau Lawton of Gainesville, Florida and Sydney Lawton of Rockville, Maryland. He also leaves behind many family members in Bristol, Connecticut, and Van Buren, Maine.
Crevasse's Simple Cremation is honored to serve the Thibodeau family.
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The many memories that I have of Uncle Norm. The joy he always brought how he loved to tease and goof around. It was not a moment in my life where I could think about going to see Uncle Norm and having it be boring. He always was a jokester he always loved to bring smiles and joy. It is one thing I will always hang on to the memory of his joy. The memory of his hugs that he gave where he would not let go and you always felt like your bones were going to break but you knew how much he truly loved you. I'm sure he has blessed so many people in his life with the love that he had for living life. He will be truly missed by so many.
Sorry for your loss!
When we moved to Gainesville your family were so welcoming. Our parents built the house and yours were right there soon after or before I can’t remember lol he always let me come into the garden and pick vegetables. He was always outside to give a good wave of hello. He and your mother will be missed. hugs to you and your family
I especially admired Norman for his dedication to his family (including grandchildren), his skills as a gardener, and above all his exceptional mastery in carpentry. Also, I am grateful for his military service, as individual freedoms in our country were won by such as he. Thank you, Norman.Â