Norman Joseph Tardif

     TARDIF, Norman Joseph, 88, PRESQUE ISLE, March 9, 2015. A private Mass and celebration of life will be held at a later date.

     PRESQUE ISLE – Norman Joseph Tardif departed this world to be with his heavenly father on March 9, 2015. He was 88 years young. Norman was born in Van Buren, ME, on January 27, 1927, to Eugenie and Alcide Tardif, taking his place as the seventh child in the group of 18.
    He began his career at Bangor and Aroostook Railroad when he was 17 years old. While working in Bangor, he met a beautiful young secretary, Margaret Kane, and they were married soon after. They eventually settled in Presque Isle where they lovingly raised their four children. Norman’s energetic work ethic along with a winning personality helped him quickly climb the corporate ladder. When he decided to retire at age 60, he was the Vice President of sales for the Bangor and Aroostook Railroad. All who had the privilege of meeting him were forever changed by his kindness. People gravitated to his energy for life, and he would always walk away from any situation with a new friend or two.
    Norman’s favorite place in the world was his camp at Long Lake on Van Buren Cove where the family would spend summers as well as winter-time ice fishing and snowmobiling. He was an avid outdoorsman and made his dream come true after retirement when he traveled to Alaska several times to catch “the big fish”. Norman’s family and friends will miss him dearly but will live life to the fullest in his honor.
    He was predeceased by his wife, Margaret; and infant son, Brian. He is survived by his son, Stephen Tardif and partner, Tony; daughter, Laurie Tardif; daughter, Julie DiPierro and husband, Cosmo; son, Thomas Tardif and wife, Linda; as well as his grandchildren, Liana DiPierro, Charise Corsino, and Corey Tardif. Norman also is survived by his very special friend, Gloria Irvine.
    A private Mass and celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the American Heart Association in his memory.