NORMA POCKETT (COOPERBAND)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

NORMA POCKETT (nee COOPERBAND) It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Norma Pockett, on Sunday, March 10, 2013, in her 88th year. Norma passed away very peacefully in her sleep and is now back with her husband, Moiche. With her passing, Norma leaves behind her two daughters, Barb Druxerman and Rena Niznick (Dan Lafleur), her precious grand-children, Ellie and Derek Shelton, Ronit and Martin Little, Jordan and Stacey Druxerman, Erin and Rory Brett and Abbi and Brad Church, as well as her four great-grandchildren, William, Shayna and Emily Little and Cameron Shelton. She also leaves behind nieces, nephews and many dear friends. Norma was predeceased by her parents Beryl and Faiga Cooperband, as well as her brothers Dr. Jack and Mickey Cooperband. Norma was born in Mezirich, Poland in 1924 and immigrated to Canada in 1926. Norma was a model student, an avid reader and a true intellect, achieving her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Manitoba, well before the time of women scholars. As she was so well educated, with a strong and vivid mind, it is believed that the progression of her Alzheimer's disease was delayed. Norma met Moiche, the love of her life and best friend, on a blind date, and she loved to repeat the story that during their first date, Moiche admitted to her that she was the woman who was to become his wife. Their love never wavered, grew stronger over time, and was an inspiration to all around them. They were happily married for 61 years. Norma devoted her life to her family, instilling within her children and grandchildren values that centered around tradition and menschlachkeit. She spent the early years of her married life helping Moiche in his restaurant, Topper's Grill. Once Barb and Rena were born, Norma became the true stay-at-home mother, nurturing and guiding her daughters. Shabbat dinners, Jewish Holiday dinners and preparations were so important to Norma. She loved that the entire family could be together at her home, celebrating as one. As her daughters grew older, Norma joined her brother Mickey Cooperband at Silverman Jewellers, where she became not only a saleswoman of fine jewels and diamonds, but a very knowledgeable resource in jewellery for the community. Norma was a devoted daughter to her mother, Faiga Cooperband. During Faiga's later years, Norma was with her mother daily, caring for her until Faiga's passing. Her devotion was unwavering, selfless and unconditional. Norma had the uncanny ability of being able to teach life's lessons to her children and grandchildren, through the fictional invention of two little girls, Suzie and Pamela. Not a visit would go by without Bubby Norma teaching by example, through the antics of the little girls. Norma had a smile that would light up a room - she made those around her feel warm and wanted, just by her smile. She never had a bad word to say about another human being, considered all life precious, and we will always wonder how Mother Nature could fit such a big heart into such a tiny lady. Her kindness and sweetness knew no bounds, and even as her illness progressed, Norma treated those around her with respect and appreciation. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the staff of the Shaftesbury Park Retirement Residence, who recognized Norma's failing mental cognition, yet treated her kindly. With sincere gratitude we thank Josie, Karnel and Mely, who cared for Norma with patience and love. Although we are deeply saddened by Norma's passing, we have accepted that it was her time, her tikun, and we are comforted knowing that Norma and her beloved Moiche are together again. I'll love you forever I'll like you for always As long as I'm living My mommy you'll be. (Robert Munsch, Love You Forever) If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, Norma and Maurice Pockett Fund. (www.jewishfoundation.org, 204-477-7520)

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 06, 2013