It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Caro Innes Norris at the Parkwood Institute Palliative Care Unit in London on April 20th 2021. Caro leaves her husband Thomas, her son Jonathan (Jake), daughter in law Kristen, her sister Penelope Swanson, and her beloved four grandchildren Taylor, Calvin, Spencer, and Bryce. She is also survived by her brother in laws Dr Edward Norris (Joan) and Terry Norris (Sharon) and many nieces and nephews and their children in Canada and the United States. She was predeceased by her parents Grace Jones (1978), William Jones (2009), her brother Paul (1963), and her aunt Caro Jones (2009).
Special thanks to the nurses, doctors, and staff at the Palliative Care Unit at Parkwood for the wonderful and gracious care given to Caro during the last weeks of her life.
Caro was born in Windsor and attended Forrester High School. She graduated from Metropolitan General Hospital Windsor in June of 1967 with a Diploma from the School of Nursing. Caro completed a Cardiology Course for Nurses at Desert Hospital in Palm Springs California in August of 1970. Prior to the Cardiology course Caro worked as an Assistant Head Nurse at Windsor Western Hospital. Her career took her to Henry Ford Hospital Detroit and Bon Secours in Grosse Pointe Michigan just before meeting Tom. After they were married, they moved to Corunna south of Sarnia where she was employed as a Clinical Coordinator at Sarnia General. In June of 1977 they transferred to London she took a position in the Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital. Caro was hired as a Clinical Research Coordinator in the Arrhythmia Unit at London Health Sciences Centre University Campus working for Western University in March of 1985 until her retirement.
Caro was a competitive golfer throughout her life and a member of Widder Station in Thedford until her health restricted that activity. Her early hobbies were knitting and painting portraits. Every family member wanted one of Caro’s knit sweaters. She then went on to rug hooking and the crocheting of numerous afghans and shawls. The crocheting turned to the completion many cross stitch kits scenes of vacations, baby bibs, and baby footprints. However, her real passion for the last two decades was the painting of figurines. Santa’s of every size and description made lifelike by the finishing touches on their faces and eyes.
Sports were big in the Norris household and Caro was always at Jake’s baseball and hockey games. When the grandchildren began playing sports she was there as well. Whether it was sports or school she always had suggestions on what they could do to build on their performance.
On a more personal note, despite her health problems Caro was a person more concerned about her family, friends, and patients then herself. She loved travel whether it was her business trips, cruises, golf trips to South Carolina and Michigan or visits to California. She was a loving parent, grandparent, and a beautiful well-loved wife. Caro loved life and has left the world a better place for her having been in it.
You will be sorely missed Babe.
A Celebration of Caro’s life will be held at the Ilderton Community Centre, 13168 Ilderton Rd, Ilderton, on Monday, November 22nd at 11 AM. Due to Provincial COVID-19 restrictions, each person must RSVP for the service, please click “Register Now” below to register. Due to COVID-19 proof of vaccination restrictions, each person must show proof that they are fully vaccinated to attend the service. Proof of vaccination can be attained by visiting covid19.ontariohealth.ca. Arrangements entrusted to Haskett Funeral Home, Lucan (519-227-4211). Donations to the Arthritis Society would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be forwarded through www.haskettfh.com.
The family thanks you for your kindness in this difficult moment in our lives.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Barbara Dale
Tom, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your Caro. So many years ago, we spent time with you both and enjoyed so many happy times golfing and having fun. Caro …. a gentle, lovely person …. will be missed by her family and her friends. Thinking of you at this sad time.
Glenn & Kathi Murphy
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Caro. She was a very kind and caring person and we have fond memories of her at many Customs events. Our hearts go out to you Tom and the family.
Big hugs, Glenn & Kathi xxoo
Cheryl Donald
Tom & Family,
I am so saddened to hear of Caro’s passing. She be be fondly remembered as a great and compassionate golf partner. I will always cherish the days I was fortunate to golf with Caro. Please know our thoughts are with all of you.
Cheryl
Jackie Malleck
Tom , I am so sorry to hear of Caro’s passing. She was a wonderful nurse & teacher. Working with her at UH was a joy. She was also so very artsy. and an all round lovely person. Its been a long time since I’ve been in touch but I have such good memories of time spent with her at work & with you both socially.
To you & your family, hold dear those good memories you have of her.
Lynn and Larry Thompson
So sorry to hear about Caro.
Our condolences to you and your family.
Larry and Ann Marchand
Tom, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our most sincere condolences to you and your family.
Sally Zandri
To Tom, Jake and family,
I was saddened to hear that Caro had passed away. I worked along side her for many years at University Hospital. She was a wonderful teacher and mentor. She worked meticulously with her research but more importantly she had wonderful relationships with all her patients.
Caro was so creative and always knitting and creating when she wasn’t on the golf course with Tom.
Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Sally Zandri
To Tom, Jake and family,
I was saddened to hear that Caro had passed away. I worked along side her for many years at University Hospital. She was a wonderful teacher and mentor. She worked meticulously with her research but more importantly she had wonderful relationships with all her patients.
Caro was so creative and always knitting and creating when she wasn’t on the golf course with Tom.
My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Colleen McArthur
Tom and the Norris Family
I worked with Caro in ICU at Sarnia General Hospital.
A super Nurse and so dedicated to her Profession.
Sorry for your loss
Greg and Colleen McArthur
Fraser & Darlene Wheatley
Although we did not have the privilege of spending a lot of time with Caro, we will always remember that her smile always lit up the room and you felt as if your presence mattered. We were lucky to receive one of her handmade cards last fall when we moved into our new home – in eyesight to Caro and Tom’s home! We hope that all of the memories that you hold dear will give you some comfort as you remember a very lovely lady.
Terry Barsanti-McGill
Dear Tom, I was saddened to hear about Caro’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sue Murphy
Dear Tom and Family, sending sincere condolences on your loss of Caro.
She was a beautiful person inside and out.
Lots of hugs
Bill & Linda McFall
Our condolences to Tom, Jake and family. The loss of a loved one is such a difficult journey. Caro was such a caring compassionate person. We hope that you can remember all the good times. Again our sympathies to the family.
Jim Steeves
Caro and I shared the clinical studies of the first PCDs and subsequent ICDs at UH London. She was an excellent study coordinator and helped me be a star within Medtronic. Those were exciting times with Drs. Klein and Yee and so many others.
I still have the Christmas gift she gave me of a painted Santa Claus figurine and will treasure that for a long time.
I will miss her – albeit I didn’t connect with her after her retirement.
Indeed, she was a wonderful, kind woman. She leaves a permanent imprint on my memory.
Dave Bolichowski
Sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences.
Dave Bolichowski
Paul and Barbie
It has been so difficult to hear the news of Caro’s passing. We have all lost a truly special friend. Caro was one of the best. A beautiful person inside and out and so very talented. Caro could do anything!
I can’t believe we’ll never get to see her smiling face again – – – except in old photos and in our memories. Even with all her health issues, she was always so upbeat and positive and she passed that optimistic outlook onto us. She never gave up.
Paul has lost his “Birthday Buddy” and he will definitely miss her Christmas shortbread.
She will always be so loved and missed.
Our hearts and thoughts go out to you Tom and to Jake and Kristen and to Caro’s precious grandsons.
Zen and Terry Muszak
Dear Tom and Family,
So sorry to hear of Caro’s passing. May you find comfort in your memories and good times you shared together. God bless. May she Rest In Peace.
Zen and Terry
Lori and Gerry Clancy
Thinking of you at this very sad time . Sincere sympathies for your very great loss. Memories of all the good times will be forever in all your hearts. WIshing you comfort in the days ahead
Bruce and Janet Johnson
Sincere Condolences to the Norris Family.
Caro will always be remembered as a very talented lady, competitive golfer, kind , fun-loving gal who always enjoyed a glass of wine.
We will treasure those memories of Michigan trips.
Rest in Peace Caro.
Linda Byers
To the Norris family,
I worked with Caro in the 70’s in Sarnia. She was an excellent nurse and great teacher. I still have the blanket she knit for my first born and used it for the grandchildren.
Rest In Peace Caro
Doug Corrigan
Tom and family
Patti and I were sorry to hear of Caro’s passing. We still fondly remember our dinner in L.A.
Please accept our sincere condolences.
Doug and Patti Corrigan.
Vaughan and Jane
Our condolences to the Norris Family. We have all lost a fine woman and a great friend.
Allena & Jim MacDonald
Tom, Jake and family:
Saddened by your deep loss. Caro was amazing in so many ways and I know you will all miss her so much. Working with Caro during her time with the Arrhythmia Service was a pleasure , honour and fun in many ways. I will always remember our trip to California and the time we spent at her Aunt Caro’s beach house. Rest In Peace. ♥️
Judy Clinton (formerly Jones)
Dear Penny and the Norris Family:
I was deeply saddened to learn of Caro’s passing. Our years together were long ago but my memories are sweet. Rest in peace my dear girl. I know you will be missed. My sincere condolences to you all.
Tim and Sherry Watkin
Tom and family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Caro was a kind, loving and thoughtful person. May she rest in peace.
Tim and Sherry Watkin
Lorne black
Dear Tom and family
My deepest condolence for your loss. May the many memories of Caro that you share, sustain you in the coming weeks, months and years.
May God bless you and your extended family.
Peter and Brenda Haist
So sorry to hear of Caro’s passing. Our sincere condolences to Tom and family
Laurie Gardner
Tom, Jake, Kristen and family,
We will always have great fond memories of our times and travels together. How very talented a gal she was and how fortunate we are to have some of her works (Stick Santas are my favourite).
Caro will always be remembered as a great gal and a super friend!
She will be missed so very much by all of us.
Laurie and Dave Gardner
Pete, Jackie & Tracey Martens
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Caro. She was a great person. We will especially remember her on our Mediterranean cruise, trip to Hawaii and several Michigan golf trips. May your many memories comfort you during this difficult time. RIP Caro
Vickie Collier
Tom so sorry for your loss. Caro was a true friend and I will treasure all the good times we all had together. Sending love and support to you and your family
Tom Thomson
Tom:
Caro was so talented and yet so humble. She was an incredible person and I can only imagine the depth of your loss.
My sincerest condolences.
Tom Thomson
Kathy and John Seager and family
Dear Tom, Jake and family
We were saddened to hear of Caro’s passing. She has fought hard for a long time to stay with her family and friends. We have a lifetime of wonderful memories, especially our years at Orchardview Park. Caro had more talent than anyone we know, and was so generous with her beautiful gifts. She will be greatly missed.
Tom and Mary Ann McLaughlin
We were very saddened by the news of Caro’s passing. We remember her endless smiles and laughter – she will be missed by so many hearts that she touched. Tom, and family, you are in our thoughts during this very difficult time. Cherish all your memories as they will last you a lifetime. RIP Caro.
Susan Muir
Sincere condolences to the Norris family. I met Caro while working in the Cardiac Investigation Unit at UH in 1985. We both went on to work for the Arrhythmia Service until she retired. I was fortunate enough to meet her son Jake, who worked as a summer student, for the service. We partied at many EP parties and that’s how I met Tom. I bumped into Caro at the Widder Station club house several years ago where we had a very nice visit. I will always remember her dedication to her work and her kind soul. Rest in peace Caro.
Norm & Donna Middaugh
Boy, where do we start. Our life long friend and travel partner is no longer with us. The places we went, the fun we had will be forever etched in our memories. I can picture Caro and Donna having a Frangelico and sipping on a port until Tom and I told them to go to bed. There are so many memories of Caro, her artistry with paints, her golfing prowess, her endless love and support of Jake and her grandkids and much more. Of all her accomplishments the one thing she was terrible at was playing cards after a couple of wines. Actually it turned into quite a comedy act. We miss you Caro but our times together will always be ‘SPECIAL’.
Martin and Leena Mallo
Dear Tom,
Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Caro was both warm and kind and your closeness speaks to a very special relationship.
Martin and Leena
Marion and Randy
Dear Tom, Jake, Kristen and boys,
We are so sorry for your loss. Caro has been a great friend for so many years. We will truly miss her. She fought hard through her illness to stay with those she loved.
Xo
Mar and Randy
Bonnie & Ron Huckstep
To the Norris Family
Ron and I are thinking of you at this very sad time. After reading the story above I feel like I know her and what a wonderful women she was. Hugs
Janet L Marchant
So very sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies.
Barb Mailer
Dear Tom, Jake and family,
Our deepest condolences in the loss of Caro. She was a beautiful, warm, caring, creative and loving woman. Every Christmas I think of her when I display my pencil Santa’s that she created for me. You are so right that the world is a better place for her having been in it.
Take time to remember and cherish the wonderful memories you have built with her.
Big hugs Barb and Ross. ❤️😘
Brian and Linda Urquhart
Tom and Jake – Words cannot express the sorrow we feel on hearing of Caro’s passing. She was a beautiful and talented woman and a great friend.
Please find comfort in the memories you have of her wonderful life.
Love to you all,
Brian and Linda
Trailer trash friends.
Don and Judy Squire
Tom and family,
We are sorry to hear of the loss of Caro. May you find comfort in your many wonderful memories.
Don and Judy Squire
Barb Coughlin
My sincerest condolences to you, Tom, and your family. Caro was great person to be around, always interested in everyone. I have great memories of our Michigan golf trips. Take care
Barb
Jim and Helen Hearn
Our sincere sympathy to Caro’s entire family. We are so sad to say good-bye to a special friend. Our lives were certainly enriched from knowing Caro. She will be God’s right hand up there – probably organizing the angels. Rest assured that Caro will be watching all her loved ones and cheering them on from above.
Love,
Jim and Helen
john t brason
To Tommy, Jake and all the Norris family:
Please accept my sincere sympathies for your immense loss. I found Caro to be an extremely genuine person who loved her family very much. Treasure all of your memories of Caro that you were all lucky enough to share.
Rest in Peace my friend. BIG HUGS.
Randy & Gail Oke
Tom and family, words fail to express our sorrow for your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you through this difficult time.
Randy and Gail Oke
Maureen(Corrigan) and Mike Mahony
We are sorry to hear about the loss of your loving and accomplished wife, mother and friend. Although we only met a few times at family events in Sarnia, it was always a pleasure to chat with Caro. That she could leave such a positive impression on us speaks to her warmth and sincere interest in other people. Our deepest sympathy to all who knew and loved her.
Wendy & Bill McNiff
To Tom, Jake and Family
We are so sorry for your loss. Caro was a lovely person, so friendly and kind. May you find comfort in your memories. Rest In Peace Caro.
Sincerely,
Wendy & Bill McNiff
Dave Elston
Tom: You forgot to mention what a great bar tender she was. When she mixed my drink and my left hand was playing a different carol than my right hand, and after I picked myself off the floor and back on the piano bench (this was during our Christmas walk – about carol sing at our place) she became my favourite bar tender. But, I will miss her for a lot more because of the special person she was. Condolences to Jake and his gang, too.
Pam Mundy
We are saddened to hear of the passing of such a wonderful person as Caro. We have many fond memories of the family times we spent in her company. She was indeed a genuine, kind, caring person who made you feel you had her undivided attention. Her memory will live on in her grandchildren for sure.
Love
Elsie, Pam and Mike
Joanne & Gord Hardy
To the Norris family:
Sincere sympathy for your loss. Caro was a very special person; wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, friend. Certainly agree that the world is left a better place for her having been in it! May she rest in peace.