It is with great sadness that the Telecommunications Workers Union (TWU) announces the passing of former Union Officer, Norton Youngs on September 14, 2009, in Vancouver.

Norton’s impressive dedication and work ethic will always be remembered, especially his straightforward and candid manner during his time in office.

Norton was hired by BC Tel in 1955 and shortly afterwards became a Shop Steward in Local 1.  In 1963, Norton was elected as a Councillor from Local 1 and, subsequently, elected as the first paid Assistant General Secretary to then plant General Secretary, Norm Pettigrew.

For family reasons, Norton returned to the workplace where he soon became well-known as an activist for health and safety issues.  When he was again elected to full-time office in 1974 as a Business Agent, he became the Union’s Communications Officer.  Norton also holds the distinction of being the TWU’s first Health and Safety Officer.  Some time after 1977, Norton was asked to become a full-time Health and Safety Officer as the Union was facing an increased amount of safety-related issues.  Norton’s hard work was instrumental in promoting the importance of health and safety as a vital issue in the workplace, which had previously not been the case. 

Norton retired from the TWU in 1987, but remained a frequent visitor for many years, attending the Union’s conventions where he was able to catch up with friends and former colleagues.  As two of the founders of the Spruce Harbour liveaboard Marina, Norton and his wife, Louise, enjoyed many happy years of retirement onboard the Castlefinn.  Norton is survived by his wife, daughter (Noreen Angus), son (Brent), two grandchildren, a step-daughter, seven step-grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial will be held at Spruce Harbour Marina, located at 1015 Ironwork Passage, Vancouver, B.C., on September 26, 2009, as of 3:00 p.m.