Contributions to the tribute of Norman D. MacKenzie

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Sunday, October 1, 2023

Mr. MacKenzie has always been a revered part of my foundation of life. My family moved to Oroville just before my junior year at Las Plumas. We had an outstanding physical education department and I was active in sports (GAA). Mr. MacKenzie recruited me to be a stat girl for track & field along with Gail Millet and scorekeeping/clock for the mens' basketball league for both of my final years at LP. FAST FORWARD 23 years... I returned as a staff member and had the honor of working with Mr. MacKenzie for the rest of his tenure. He was absolutely rock solid and positive every day. His favorite saying was "Better days ahead" when it may have been a rocky day for someone. I even learned through conversation that he was good friends with a second cousin of mine through the Athletic Directors' Association, Larry Rice, Jr. Even after he retired, he would check in person to see how we were doing, I'd happily run copies for the track portion of the NSCIF organization of which he remained active. Although we were fellow staff members, I could not bring myself to call him by his first name out of utter respect for the man who was larger than life! I may have called him "Stormin' Norman" from time to time, however, Mr. MacKenzie ate, slept and breathed athletics and his genuine concern for others was 100% sincere. I'll never know another man like Mr. MacKenzie; but, he's forever in my heart! Deepest sympathy and condolences, Patricia Smith Administrative Secretary II (ret.) Las Plumas High School

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Patricia Smith posted a condolence

Sunday, October 1, 2023

SHARED from my message page from former staff member, Glenn Dawson: Norm was always a great friend and he always had the students' well being in mind for sure! Super nice guy that helped me learn some of the ropes when I was new to LP. Love your choice of the "stew" losing its flavor! Respectfully submitted, Patricia Smith Administrative Secretary II (ret.), LPHS

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Patricia Smith posted a condolence

Sunday, October 1, 2023

SHARED FROM A MESSAGE to me from former Principal Dr. Barry Kayrell and former OUHSD Superintendent: He will be sorely missed. Sat for a few moments and reflected on the many great memories that we shared, he was truly one of a kind. He always put kids first, and was a great champion for athletics not only in Oroville but the whole north state. Always cherished our long drives to the football games, as you know Norm could talk your ear off. Plus you always knew where you stood with Norm, he wasn’t shy about voicing his thoughts or opinions. I can can clearly remember one trip to Lassen with Joe High, Wes Martin, and of course Norm, in the old blue bomber, great fun. He truly lived his passion, a life well lived. Barry Respectfully submitted, Patricia Smith Retired Administrative Secretary II, Las Plumas High School

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Tip Wilmarth posted a condolence

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Norm was one of the finest gentlemen I have ever had the pleasure to know. He was always upbeat, positive and truly interested in each person he was interacting with. Whenever I would bump into him or drop by his house, he would have time to ask about my family, what I was working on and what I was interested in. He and Barb were an awesome couple. He will be missed. Tip Wilmarth

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Tom Schroeder posted a condolence

Saturday, September 16, 2023

So sorry to hear about Norm. What a great mentor to me. He will be missed. Tom Schroeder

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The family of Norman D. MacKenzie uploaded a photo

Friday, September 15, 2023

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The family of Norman D. MacKenzie uploaded a photo

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Norman D. MacKenzie

1930 - 2023

Celebration of Life

Ramsey Funeral Home

Oroville Funeral Home

Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel

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