Tribute Wall
In Memory of
Norman and Cynthia Day
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Guido Derlagen posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, August 5, 2022
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I'm Guido Derlagen and have been the computer support person of these two wonderful people for over a decade. I always enjoyed helping them out. We had some great chats about family matters and Cynthia used to give me some great relationship and parenting advice throughout the years. I'm glad now that I didn't always follow her advice as I could have been a bachelor still! For Norman I have replaced plenty keyboards because they were always clogged with pipe tobacco! Thank you for your much appreciated business and support throughout the years. You will both be missed greatly. Kim, I wish you strength in the difficult times ahead of you.
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Jean and Doug Paton posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 2, 2022
A Tribute to Our Dear Friends, Cynthia and Norman Day
“Animator: someone who imparts energy and vitality and spirit to other people.”
The movies have co-opted the term, but I think of Cynthia as “The Animator of Marlborough,” imparting energy and vitality and spirit to the other residents of that small, downtown Toronto street. She was fundamental in making Marlborough the welcoming, inclusive street it became, in a city not known for its friendliness. Cynthia greeted residents, welcomed visitors, kept her “eyes on the street,” as Jane Jacobs begged us all to do. And Norman, despite his natural reticence, encouraged her and was proud of her, joining in all her adventures.
If we wondered who was moving – in or out! -, who was having a baby, who was sick, the rest of us could wonder, but Cynthia already knew. She talked to people, she listened to people: a true friend, a wonderful neighbour.
Every community should have a Cynthia and Norman Day.
We have Cynthia to thank for our special Annual Marlborough Barbecue: she was the driving force in its creation and in making sure it continued year after year. Like the great teacher she was, she made sure there was fun for the children, too. What other Toronto Street could have created a neighbourhood quilt, as we did in our special commemorative year? (I have forgotten just what we were commemorating – ten years of something? – but I have not forgotten the special evening we enjoyed with our Marlborough neighbours.)
Norman is precious in our memories too, not only for being the encouraging backup to the exuberant Cynthia! We introduced Norman to the Bruce Trail, but Norman made hiking a lifestyle, becoming very involved in the Bruce Trail (eventually editor of the Bruce Trail News), leading summer hiking trips to Britain, and for many years the stalwart coordinator and often hike leader of the hiking program for the cherished Seniors Sports Club, a group so important to us too.
We have so many memories of times with our friends Cynthia and Norman! Times enjoyed over one of Cynthia’s marvellous curries or a smoking back-deck barbecue. Particular mention must be made of the Great Ostrich Egg Omelet, when twelve of us shared the egg carefully brought by plane from South Africa on Cynthia’s lap. We shared the fun of blowing the egg from its shell with a trumpet-playing friend of Norman’s (he outdid us all). There were parties after the Cottingham Fun Fair (all of us ultra-exhausted), and New Year’s Eve, Cynthia presenting herself at the door with salt and coal as “the dark stranger.” Norman puffed beside his sign “Let me smoke my pipe in peace,” offering drinks all round, and cerebral discussions on books he enjoyed.
We always miss them. They made us and our lives better. We will never forget them.
Lovingly, Doug and Jean
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Headley and Daphne King posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 2, 2022
Uncle Norman died on the 19th June 2022 at the age of 92 years. Three days later Auntie Cynthia died at the age of 88. They were married for 62 years.
This is their love story.
The young and beautiful Cynthia Hermanus left Mossel Bay at the age of 23 in 1957 on a boat to England. She told me that she had gone on a Motorbike ride in Europe with a friend. When they returned they threw a party where they regaled their friends with stories of their adventure. Norman Day was one of the guests at this party. He was captivated by the young and dynamic woman from South Africa. He pursued her and she was equally enthralled by his quiet charm. He was a shy bookworm.... she was an extrovert...but they both loved jazz. They got married and lived in a flat in London. Life was hard for the mixed race couple.
They could not live in South Africa because of the prohibition of the mixed marriages Act of 1949.This was a cruel Apartheid law which prohibited marriages between people of colour and people classified as white .This Act was repealed on the 19th June 1985.
They applied to live in Australia and New Zealand. They were rejected. When they applied to Canada Uncle Norman had to travel to Canada to plead their case. The rest is history.
They had one daughter, Kim, who was born in 1970.She was the centre of their existence, right up to the end.
Auntie Cynthia returned to South Africa for the first time in 1963.She visited her family in Cape Town and Mossel Bay regularly but Uncle Norman could not accompany her. They were told by the SA embassy that they would have to live in separate accommodation in Capetown and Mossel Bay.
He refused to come. No one will ever know the pain and humiliation they must've endured during those separate vacations.
Auntie Cynthia's visits were always exciting. She was fun loving and jovial and loved spending time with her family and friends.
When Uncle Norman eventually accompanied her we had the time of our lives. We hiked, we travelled the countryside and we partied. My son once said : ” Uncle Norman and Auntie Cynthia are the coolest old people I know…” they loved life.
They stood by the family in the dark times as well. Auntie Cynthia came over when Headley and I were detained. Headley was charged with furthering the aims of the ANC which was banned at the time. She was there during the trial with Doreen, Headley’s mom, her older sister and Auntie Olga another sister.
They were there when he was sentenced to 18 months in prison. She was devastated.
The other dark period in our lives was when Headley’s older brother Elrid died in 2008. She was very fond of Elrid. Dare I say it….I think he was her favourite nephew and Berenice was her favourite niece.I remember her sitting right in front in the church all on her own on that sad day when we buried Elrid.
Auntie Cynthia was only 10 years older than Elrid. That is why they were so close. Auntie Cynthia was the youngest of 7 siblings and Doreen, Headley and Elrid’s mom was the eldest. She was 20 years older than auntie Cynthia and practically helped rear her.
Headley says that “ the Bruce trail news” the magazine the Uncle Norman edited made good reading while he was in prison. Our visit to Toronto in 2012 stands out in our memories as one of the best holidays ever. We hiked, we visited museums and historical sites and the magnificent Niagra Falls. They were gracious and generous hosts.
When we visited in 2018 we could see that old age had taken its toll of these 2 wonderful, “young at heart” relatives of ours. Auntie Cynthia was already showing early signs of dementia and Uncle Norman was definitely not his old active self.
Kim was there and took care of her parents 24/7. She was their rock.
On behalf of the Hermanus, Pearce, Rorich and King Family we want to thank Kim for her devotion to her parents. She was with them every step of the way. She was there right up to the end.
Hamba Kahle ( Go well) Auntie Cynthia and Uncle Norman.
Until we meet again.
Daphne and Headley King.
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X posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 2, 2022
Here's to Cynthia & Norman
Hey Kim,
It is 2:45 PM and I am raising a glass of milk with a Walker's chocolate mint thin to Cynthia and Norman. Oh how they would disapprove of my choice of drink - yet, they would not hold it against me. I smile knowing this.
Your parents always warmly welcomed me into their home. I have 30+ years of memories of your Mum holding court - entertaining us with lively topics and every once in awhile your dad chiming in something that demonstrated he not only kept up with her, but in many ways could go beyond her and we would all take notice - with awe and admiration - not just at his oh so wise insight, but, for also finally getting a word in. :)
I also raise my glass to you my friend for your dedication to them. They were fully dedicated to you until their health began to falter and you returned this dedication to them in kind and then some over the past decade.
May you find the embrace of new and continued family experiences with the wonderful community of friends in your life and may you also prosper in new and wonderous ways. This is my wish / want for you. X
M
Mark Day posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 2, 2022
Uncle Norman did so much in his life, it’s difficult to know where to start. Marrying Cynthia and emigrating to Canada in 1962 was probably the most momentous change for the both of them. His two brothers, Ron and Ken and his mother Mabel knew Norman the best and I believe he had a reputation of being something of a rebel – so on reflection they no doubt said .. “That’s Norman through and through!”
Others will no doubt trace the ups and the downs of Norman and Cynthia’s long and very active life in Canada and have many happy memories I am sure. When Kim arrived – I just can’t remember how long ago that was now – this added another dimension. I recall all three of them visiting us when we lived in Southsea – Kim was only a youngster and something of a handful. Now, did she take more after her father or her mother? Hmm. – I’ll leave that in the air.
In the 1970s/early 1980s Norman would regularly come over to England with a group of fellow hikers and he would act as their guide to the South Downs Way. Having a Guest House in Southsea meant we were an ideal stopping off point for the whole group. I have many fond memories of those times. Cynthia accompanied Norman as minibus driver on one occasion. She did not realise that the bus would have a “stick shift” and what did you have to do when you came to a roundabout!!! My father, Ron, was drafted in to save the Day!
About 20 years ago, when Kim came over to live and work in London for a while there was a new base where Norman and Cynthia could stay and enjoy London all over again. When the opportunity arose we would often meet up at a “proper” English pub, so that Norman, and myself, could enjoy a few traditional ales. The ladies – Cynthia, Kim and my wife Heather indulged us!
Our son Stephen went over to Canada for a long holiday when he was in his teens – Norman and Cynthia pulled out all the stops and he had a fantastic and memorable time. There was a great deal of socialising with many of their friends and excursions all over – no doubt Norman as the tour guide and Cynthia as the events coordinator!
When he moved into his most recent residence, Norman seemed to take on a new lease of life. As Kim has told me the staff would often refer to the antics and activities of “Mr Day” with great affection. It was reassuring to know that Norman and Cynthia were back together again when we “Zoomed” this New Year.
They will both be missed - they are together again and may they rest in peace.
Mark
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Michael lit a candle
Wednesday, July 13, 2022
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My thoughts are with you Kim. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
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Susan Dudeney lit a candle
Tuesday, July 12, 2022
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Sending you all our love Kim at this time from Susan , David , Katy , Emily and Claire in England
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Pat Humphrey (Hill) posted a condolence
Saturday, July 9, 2022
Hello dear Kim,
I was saddened to read in last Saturday's Toronto Star about the death of both your loving parents. My goodness what a shock to lose both parents within 72 hours of each other.
Your Mom and I worked together at Sunny View School but I actually knew her before that when she taught students on Home Instruction. The Home Instructions teachers had their base at Sunny View and they would come in frequently for their supplies.
Once the Home Instruction Program closed, your Mom joined the Sunny View Staff. We had coffee & lunch together most days. I knew your Dad only through your dear Mom at our fun social gatherings. Both were amazingly talented and delightful people.
Your Mom & I had a lovely friendship and I have nothing but fond memories of our wonderful and interesting times together.
Please know that your in my thoughts during this very sad and difficult time in your life.
A favourite quote that I read in The Toronto Star a few years ago sums up grief nicely.
"GRIEF IS THE LAST ACT OF LOVE WE CAN GIVE TO THOSE WE LOVED. WHERE THERE IS DEEP GRIEF, THERE WAS GREAT LOVE."
Affectionately,
Pat Humphrey (Hill)
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Kate Parker posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
I am very sad to learn about the passing of Cyntie and Norman. I have many fond memories growing up on Marlborough with Kim and the large gaggle of kids on the street, as we celebrated street parties and street wide yard sales, summer BBQ's at the "train tracks" parkette, community fireworks, and holiday parties. Cyntie and Norman were key people on the street. They will be missed! Much love to you, Kim, and the rest of your family. xo Kate Parker (21)
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Kathy Johnston posted a condolence
Saturday, July 2, 2022
I met Norman Day in 1987 when I flew to England and joined a hiking tour that was based out of Canterbury. I was so impressed by the small group style of travel and the well organized trip that I booked the next trip to hike around the Isle of Wight in 1991,
After that - in the 1990's - I travelled with Norman on two other small group trips (Belize (hiking and sailing) and Costa Rica). These trips added to my collection of great "travelling" memories and some great photographs. I liked Norman's style as a tour and hiking leader. He was a memorable guy.
It is an odd coincidence that earlier this year I was thinking of Norman - wondering if he still had some connection to small group travel. I was sad that I could not find any information on-line. I saw the obituaries in the Toronto Star today (Saturday, July 2) for both Norman and Marjorie and just had to write to express my condolences. .
Kathy Johnston
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Malaika Eyoh lit a candle
Saturday, July 2, 2022
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Sending you alot of love during this time, Kim. Aunty Cynthia and Uncle Norman were the coolest aunt and uncle <3
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The family of Norman and Cynthia Day uploaded a photo
Thursday, June 30, 2022
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The family of Norman and Cynthia Day uploaded a photo
Thursday, June 30, 2022
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