If a man lives to be 100, how many people will take the time to honor his long and productive life?

The International Caregivers Association, LLC is mourning following the death of our first Chairman of the Board, Sir Norman Duncan. He always served the association well and without reservation. He died at Martinsburg VA Center in Virginia, USA on Friday, August 16, 2019. 

Norman suffered a major Stroke in January 2019 and barely recovered so he could fly to Normandy France this past June. Sitting in the front row in his wheelchair along other veterans, he actively participated in the 75th anniversary of D-Day celebration.

I was able to take numerous photos from my television and create a souvenir photo album for him upon his return to the United States. Grateful as usual, he called me to let me know he would use that album in his presentation about WWII to other veterans at the home.

His death is unsettling, especially because he was involved with the ICA up to a few weeks ago. Norman will be remembered for his ideas, support, sense of humor and rolling laughter. At the end of July, Richard Efthim who is part of the ICA team, treated Norman to a coffee in a coffee shop. Here is one of the photos taken by Richard at the coffee shop.

Last week, I received word from his daughter, Tina, that Norman was very ill. It is not uncommon for a person at this late stage in life to suddenly fight for their life. 

Here are a few of Norman’s contribution to this world. A devoted husband and father of three, he took care of his wife, Elsie, in their home for many years before she died with Alzheimer’s.

·        Love for family, especially his war bride, Elsie (from England)

·        Love for country (WWII Veteran honored in 2018 by the French government)

·        Love of opera and music; honorary board member of the Loudoun Symphony

·        Love of women, especially French women in Normandy

·        First Chairman of the Board at the International Caregivers Association

·        Always interested in research into Alzheimer’s, training topics, etc.

·        Proclamation to declare “Labor of Love Weekend” for all caregivers (in September)

·        Never too busy to hold a telephone conference, even late in the evening

·        Always interested in the work of the International Caregivers Association

·        …so much more

Because of his Caregiving responsibilities to Elsie, he discovered the International Caregivers Association (ICA) and volunteered to support our mission: Changing the course of dementia care through Education and research, and to become the first Chairman of the Board.

Until we meet again, Norman… It was good to know you and work with you. Thank you for serving this country and thank you for serving so well as Chairman of the Board at the ICA.

Obituary at https://www.colonialfuneralhome.com/obituary/norman-duncan

Remembering Norman Duncan: To honor his work and life, you may donate to the Loudoun Symphony at https://www.loudounsymphony.org/donate

Thank you,

Dr. Ethelle Lord, President at the ICA