Dennis and Earl (right) pause for a rest.
Earl Norman was a man who appreciated legacy. If someone or something had stood the test of time, Earl was interested.
“When he was younger, he liked vacationing in Mexico to see archaeological sites,” his brother Dennis shared. “Back home, he was also a ‘rock hound,’ collecting gems and rocks like opals, red garnets and crystal quartz.”
Earl’s curiosity fueled his adventures for much of his life. He loved studying the people, places and things of the past. But a Parkinson’s diagnosis in his early 60s prompted Earl to look to the future.
While he continued to enjoy his hobbies — traveling until he couldn’t, adding to his rock collection and caring for his beloved cats, Boots and Baby — he began making new plans, too. No one was surprised when those plans included a gift that would impact future generations.
“He knew he wanted to support The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) when he began estate planning,” his niece Jennifer explained. “He liked the idea that he would play a part in finding a cure.”
Before he passed on April 13, 2024, at the age of 79, Earl made sure MJFF was part of his will.
“We love that my uncle could support causes that aligned with his values and interests through his estate,” Jennifer said. “He lived a quiet life, but I think he would have liked knowing he made a big impact on the world in a way that felt right to him.”
Earl knew the power of quiet better than most. He had seen the sturdy cornerstones of ancient civilizations and held glistening stones created from centuries of pressure. He understood that legacies could be built quietly — and still be the ones that last.
Photo Gallery
Earl (far left) with his brother, Dennis, and parents, Earl and Elva, on a childhood family vacation.
Nieces Kristy and Kim with their father, Dennis, and uncle Earl (left front).
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