Norman Macleod

In Loving Memory of Norman Macleod. It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Norman Macleod (Norm), who entered into eternal rest, at the age of 89, on October 31, 2025, the same day as his treasured granddaughter Elisa Linton did 9 years ago. He was a devoted Christian, proud Scotsman, accomplished educator, beloved patriarch, and friend to many.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, and into a heritage rich with Scottish traditions, Norm carried the values of love, friendship, humility, and grace throughout his life. He immigrated to Canada in 1958 to pursue his education where he received in 1963 his Masters of Science Degree in Civil Engineering at Queens University. Norm’s most notable engineering project was working on designing the Canadian Pavilion, Katimavik for Expo 67. In 1969 he found his true calling in academia, where he inspired generations of students as a professor in the Department of Mathematics and Physics at Ryerson Polytechnic University (now Toronto Metropolitan University). He was honoured in 2001with the title Professor Emeritus to acknowledge his academic contributions. Norm had a great passion for international students, welcoming them warmly into the country and many into his home. He was an adopted father to many, who still to this day call him papa. His passion for learning and his dedication to teaching left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of studying under him.

A man of deep faith, Norm lived his life guided by Christian principles, serving his church and community with quiet strength and unwavering devotion. His love for scripture and his commitment to prayer were the cornerstones of his character. The joy his Lord brought to his life was his strength and motivation for every day. He claimed to be an ordinary man whom God gave extraordinary opportunities to make a difference in this world.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife Muriel of 65 years, brother Angus, children: David (Victoria), Elisabeth (Randall), and Paul (Jean); grandchildren: Jessica, Connor, Timothy, Matthew, & Christopher; six great-grandchildren, and the countless lives he has touched. His family was his greatest joy, and he took immense pride in their lives, always offering wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional love. Many memorable moments for family and friends were created at the Macleod cottage, Dunvegan Acres, in Minden, Ontario. A place where peace, warmth, love and laughter were always present in the centre of God’s beautiful creation.

Norm will be remembered for his endless encouragement and genuine interest in all he knew, his gentle spirit, his sharp intellect, and his steadfast belief in the goodness and faithfulness of God. His legacy of faith, education, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A celebration of his life will be held Sunday November 9th, 2025. Guests will be received at 3:30 pm with service starting at 4 pm at Spring Garden Church, 112 Spring Garden Avenue, North York. Visitation and refreshments will follow 5:30 – 7 pm at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Sanfilippo Children’s Research Foundation (www.alifeforelisa.org), to honour of his steadfast commitment to finding a cure for his late granddaughter’s terminal illness.

Jeremiah 29:11-13

I know the plans I have for you, says God. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. You will call on me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.