J.A. Norman Dion

BARRE TOWN – Norman Dion, 92, passed away Wednesday March 12, 2025, at his home.

Born on September 25, 1932, in East Barre, he was the son of Armand J. Dion and Yvonne M. (LeClerc) Dion.  Norman was raised in a loving, French Canadien family.  He had many fond memories of growing up in East Barre - this was a special place.  The town was a hub of activity with a local baseball team, dances, and shows.  Many of his life-long friends were born, raised and then raised their own families in the same community.  The relationships were generational - they were wonderful years.

He attended East Barre Elementary School and graduated from Spaulding High School -  Class of 1950.  After graduation Norman began his career at Rock of Ages.  In 1953 he was drafted into the US Army and served with the 9th Corps in the Korean conflict until he was honorably discharged in 1955.  He then returned to Rock of Ages where he was employed for 43 years before his retirement in 1993.  Norman was well respected throughout the local granite industry and developed many long-lasting friendships that continued into his retirement years.

On October 29, 1955, he married Janet Murphy at St. Monica Catholic Church.  Following their marriage, they made their home in East Barre for 63 years before moving to Windywood Commons - Barre Town in December of 2019.

Norman’s strong Catholic faith and upbringing was an important part of his life.  As a young man he helped build the Mother Cabrini Church in East Barre.  He was proud to have had a hand in its creation and served as an altar boy for its inaugural Mass.  Over the years he was an active member of the parish, serving in many different roles.

Above all else, along with his wife Janet, Norman’s life was all about raising and providing for his five children.  He took tremendous pride in watching his children grow into their own lives, careers and families.  Their home in East Barre was the heart of the neighborhood where there was always a friendly game to be found.  As the years progressed it was graduations, weddings, grandchildren and eventually great-grandchildren.  Pepe’s pockets were always filled with cherry lifesavers.  No visit was ever complete without a sweet treat – his way of sharing a piece of his love.  As the years went by and the grandchildren grew, his daily dose of affection shifted to the family dogs.  His pockets, once filled with candy, were now filled with dog treats - always ready to share a little joy.

Once the family was grown, it was time to enjoy retirement.  Norman and Janet spent many years wintering in Florida where they made new southern friends.  Summers in Vermont were spent enjoying golf at the Barre Country Club.  Family days were spent at Harvey’s Lake, poolside in the backyard with the grandkids, and a game of cards anytime.  Norman was a devoted Red Sox fan and could often be found in front of the television watching his favorite team or enjoying big band music on his iPad.

Norman was a member of the American Legion, the Elks and a past member of the East Barre Fire Department.

Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Janet.  His sons Mark (Susan) of Johns Island, SC, N. Michael of Avalon, NJ and Matt (Dulcie) of Barre Town.  His daughters, MaryBeth Carey (Rick) and Marcia, both of Barre Town.  His grandchildren, Megan Schreier (Halsey), Christopher Dion (Lauren), Michael Dion, Dylan Dion, Amanda Dion, Ian Carey (Mary), Taylor Carey (Cameron), Kloey Taylor and seven great-grandchildren.  His brother, Armand Dion (Elisabeth) and brothers-in-law Robert Murphy (Mary) and Paul Copping.  He was predeceased by his sister, Claire Copping, an infant brother, Gerard, as well as sisters-in-law, Patricia Bessette (Dona) and Mickey Murphy.

A Mass of Christian Burial to honor and celebrate his life will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Monica Catholic Church, 79 Summer St., Barre.  There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Monica Food Shelf, 79 Summer St., Barre, VT  05641.