In Memoriam: Linda Norman

Linda Norman, a Senior Systems Analyst at Western for 18 years before retiring in 2019, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, August 3, at the age of 71. 

Born into an Air Force family in Sacramento, California, Linda lived all around the world, most notably in Japan and the Philippines. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics,  and master's degrees in operations research and education.

Throughout her career at Western Linda played an instrumental role in developing and enhancing IT systems. She was the lead programmer on the Degree Works Team, responsible for implementing the comprehensive degree audit system. She played a vital role in the technical implementation of the Student Success Collaborative (Navigate) system, and was the lead programmer in support of University Residences. Linda helped develop and enhance Western’s student data warehouse, creating a pipeline of accessible, accurate student data that is used by campus constituents to make data-driven decisions. In 2017 Linda received the Professional Staff Award for Excellence.

“Linda Norman was a brilliant, meticulous programmer who was truly a joy to work with,” said Interim Registrar for Operations Taya Winter. “She had a passion for problem solving and a gift for designing and implementing complex IT systems that support student success.  She was able to explain highly technical processes with incredible patience and optimism and it was in these moments that Linda excelled. She connected with people in a collaborative way and offered creative solutions that continue to improve the student experience at Western today.” 

A woman of many talents, Linda dedicated her life to sharing her love of learning and teaching with all. Her numerous hobbies included baking award-winning pies, gardening, sewing, knitting, cross stitching, genealogy, canning, and puzzles. 

Linda leaves behind her beloved spouse of 45 years, Fenton Norman; her children, Brian Norman, Michelle Engler, and Julie Norman; five grandchildren; one sister, Diane Burwell; cousins Barbara Wood, Sandra Baxter, and Cal Florence Jr.; and many wonderful friends she considered family. 

To share your memories of Linda, please sign her online guestbook at www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/tricityherald/name/linda-norman-obituary?pid=199716384