CUMMINGS: Norman Cummings, of Brandon, passed away June 8, 1999 at the Brandon Regional Health Centre at the age of 93 years. Norman was born at Portage la Prairie, Manitoba on March 10, 1906. He spent his early years around Vista in various businesses and working with the farmers in the area. After his marriage to his love Irene, July 28, 1936, they settled in Trail, BC. For the next 10 years he worked at the Consolidated Mining and Smelting Co. It was also there Keith, Norma and Gary were born. In 1951, the family returned to Manitoba and settled in Vista and then Brandon, where he worked in the construction business with his brother Chap. At the age of ten, Norman's mother gave him a fiddle which was to lead to a life of musical enjoyment for himself, his family and friends. He was never one to be idle. His inventiveness, creativity, and craftmanship gave him many pleasurable hours. He shared many of these crafts with family and friends. Norman will always be remembered for his humour, generosity, and kindness. Surviving and lovingly remembered by his best friend and beloved wife of 63 years Irene (nee Hamilton); daughter, Norma (Bob) Crang; sons, Keith and Gary (Pat); grandchildren, Rob (Kathy), Alan, Jeff (special friend Crystal), Susan (Chris), Heather (special friend Terry), Rick (special friend Jennifer), Jennifer (Bill) and Jaclyn (special friend Colin); and three precious great-granddaughters, Robyn, Samantha, and Allyson. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Evelyn and Gladys; step-sister Hughena (Dick) Neal and numerous other relatives. Norman was predeceased by his parents Francis and Elizabeth; brothers, Jim, Chap, Richard; sister, Lillian; step-sister Effie and step-brother Hector. His attention to his family was reflected in expressions of rememberance by his grandchildren at his memorial service. Following cremation, a family graveside service and interment was held at the Brandon Cemetery on Friday, June 11, 1999. Mona Franklin officiated. Friends who wish, may make a donation in Norman's memory to the Arthritis Society, 153 - 8th Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 3W9. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre.
We will miss you Norman, Dad and Grandpa.
Do not stand by my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep
I am a thousand winds that blow
I am a diamond glint on snow
I am the sunlight on ripened grain
I am the gentle Autumn rain.
When you awake in the morning hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight
I am the soft starshine at night
Do not stand by my grave and cry
I am not there...I did not die.