Welcome to the memorial page for
Norman D. Stevens
March 4, 1932 ~ December 15, 2018 (age 86) 86 Years Old Leave a Condolence
Message from Daniel Ford
February 10, 2021 1:58 PM
Two years late, I'm afraid, but I only now went looking for Norman on the web. We graduated together from the University of New Hampshire as government majors in 1954. I beat him out as class marshal thanks to ROTC, which obliged us to drill on the parade ground (otherwise the women's phys ed field) every Thursday afternoon. I'm sure he got all A's in his academic papers, but in drill he was less than impressive. When the several hundred young men rose up in unison, Norman sank down, which was okay, but it meant that when the several hundred sank down, Norman's head popped up above the mass, to the despair of our junior and senior officers. So as it turned out, I graduated with a 4.0 and he with a 3.9999 or however many digits UNH carried out those grades. That was perhaps the most impressive thing I've ever done, and I'm forever grateful that he gave me the opportunity.
We connected later in life, and he sent me a copy of his memoir of the Molesworth Institute. Last year when I was winnowing my library, I offered the book to the UNH Library's Special Collections as an autographed copy of a book by an alumnus. This was graciously accepted and I trust will always be honored. Thank you, Norman, and Shantih, Shantih, Shantih! -- Dan Ford
We connected later in life, and he sent me a copy of his memoir of the Molesworth Institute. Last year when I was winnowing my library, I offered the book to the UNH Library's Special Collections as an autographed copy of a book by an alumnus. This was graciously accepted and I trust will always be honored. Thank you, Norman, and Shantih, Shantih, Shantih! -- Dan Ford
Message from The Norman D. Stevens Family
January 6, 2019 12:53 PM
Messages from colleagues and friends were very comforting to me and our family. Thanks you.
Nora B. Stevens
Nora B. Stevens
Message from Wolf CrescentWalker
December 27, 2018 2:17 AM
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Norman in person, for we communicated by email only. I think the ash spoon I carved might have been one of the last ones he acquired before preparing the collection for the museum. I feel quite honored to have one of my spoons included in his collection, and I thank him for the support and enthusiasm he demonstrated to handcrafters like me. I was in the middle of email correspondence with him over other projects when, ironically, he departed on my birthday. I will miss hearing from him.
Message from Brenda George (Kowalsky)
December 26, 2018 1:26 PM
I worked for Norman in the UConn Library around 1977. I was blessed to be surrounded by his great mind and lively energy (although somewhat an Norman's ability to motivate me and guide me helped me to grow in ways I never thought imaginable. He had a big role in helping shape this "crazy wild child" into the woman I have become.
I treasured the annual Christmas Card and the long talks we had on the phone.
As Maya Angelou says, people won't remember a lot of the details about your life, but they will always remember how you made them feel".
He was a treasure to me and I will never forget him.
Peace and Love.
I treasured the annual Christmas Card and the long talks we had on the phone.
As Maya Angelou says, people won't remember a lot of the details about your life, but they will always remember how you made them feel".
He was a treasure to me and I will never forget him.
Peace and Love.
Message from David & Billie Kapp
December 23, 2018 2:49 PM
It was with great sadness that we learned of Norman’s death, and we offer our deepest sympathies to Nora and their family
I first met Norman at a library conference in 1968, shortly after he had joined the administrative staff of the University of Connecticut Libraries. Planning for a major new research library building was underway at UConn, and Norman had been hired to reorganize the library. He was full of ideas for improving things and we hit it off immediately and began to correspond. Two years later, he offered me an opportunity to work with him at UConn. Billie and I moved to Connecticut with our six-year-old son and brand new daughter, where we met Nora and the Stevens children — David, Elizabeth and Sarah. Norman and Nora were wonderfully kind and helpful in getting us settled and we were launched on what became a nearly 50-year friendship.
Not long after I arrived at UConn, the state had one of its recurring financial crises. Funding for the new graduate research library was shelved by the governor, and the prospect for major improvements to library facilities dimmed. Fortunately, federal grants were available for continuing to build research collections, and Norman was an early adopter of using computers for record processing and information sharing. While we waited for money to build a new library, we embarked on efforts to make the existing library a campus center of intellectual and cultural activity.
In 1975, Governor Ella Grasso released money to build what would become the Homer Babbidge Library. The next three years were among the most demanding — and satisfying — years of my career at the UConn Library. Norman supported broad participation by the staff in programming the building and representing our needs directly with the architects and agencies charged with constructing the building. The result was that we all took ownership of the library where we would work.
I continued to work with Norman until his retirement in 1994. And although he was my “boss,” he was never “bossy.” He had a gift for discovering what people were good at and then finding a way for them to use their talents for the good of the organization. He was interested in hearing what people had to say and shared information generously. He had a formidable intelligence and a creative personality and always had a half dozen projects underway. His kind, low key persona made people inclined to work with him.
Norman was a colleague, a mentor, and a friend. Beyond the library, Billie and I enjoyed many vacations and day trips with him and Nora. He enriched our lives and we’re grateful to have known him.
Message from Linda Perrone
December 23, 2018 12:13 PM
I had the privilege of being hired by, working with and learning from Norman for more than 16 years as his development liaison for the University of Connecticut Libraries. He didn’t just recruit me; he provided me with encouragement, advice, constructive criticism and support not only as my Director but my fundraising and external relations expert, my volunteer, my recruitment and stewardship cheerleader and my friend.
It was Norman’s administrative vision and passion for all things “library” that breathed life into the university’s archives and special collections. It was Norman’s great respect for and desire to attract Connecticut archives to be nurtured and preserved by the university that aided Senator Christopher J. Dodd’s efforts to make the Thomas J. Dodd Archives and Research Center a reality. Additionally Norman’s vast knowledge and appetite for the written word, its authors and illustrators was responsible for breathing life and attracting notoriety to the libraries’ academic and special collections.
I was very fortunate not only to know and work with Norman, but to experience and learn from his foresight, kindness and compassion in dealing with people. He is a very sweet and gentle soul, and I learned innumerable and valuable life lessons from him. I will always be grateful for his generous spirit and willingness to take me under his wing.
It was Norman’s administrative vision and passion for all things “library” that breathed life into the university’s archives and special collections. It was Norman’s great respect for and desire to attract Connecticut archives to be nurtured and preserved by the university that aided Senator Christopher J. Dodd’s efforts to make the Thomas J. Dodd Archives and Research Center a reality. Additionally Norman’s vast knowledge and appetite for the written word, its authors and illustrators was responsible for breathing life and attracting notoriety to the libraries’ academic and special collections.
I was very fortunate not only to know and work with Norman, but to experience and learn from his foresight, kindness and compassion in dealing with people. He is a very sweet and gentle soul, and I learned innumerable and valuable life lessons from him. I will always be grateful for his generous spirit and willingness to take me under his wing.
Message from David and Judith McChesney
December 21, 2018 6:11 PM
Nora,
We are sorry for your loss but want to share a positive Norman encounter. He was particularly supportive and helpful in David's one year librarian exchange with Terry Hanson, a librarian at Portsmouth Polytechnic in England in 1987.
Throughout the planning and implementation phase Norman was supportive and facilitated the arrangement with UConn. At the conclusion of the exchange, Head Librarian, William Gale decided to come for a visit to Norman at the Homer Babbidge Library. Norman and Nora graciously offered to house Mr. Gale during his visit.
We will miss him but have fond memories to sustain us. Bless you Nora.
David and Judy
We are sorry for your loss but want to share a positive Norman encounter. He was particularly supportive and helpful in David's one year librarian exchange with Terry Hanson, a librarian at Portsmouth Polytechnic in England in 1987.
Throughout the planning and implementation phase Norman was supportive and facilitated the arrangement with UConn. At the conclusion of the exchange, Head Librarian, William Gale decided to come for a visit to Norman at the Homer Babbidge Library. Norman and Nora graciously offered to house Mr. Gale during his visit.
We will miss him but have fond memories to sustain us. Bless you Nora.
David and Judy
Message from Jonathan Gibson
December 21, 2018 2:00 PM
Dear Nora,
I am certain one of the highlights of my father, Raymond's, pewter craft career was winning the prestigious Stevens Metal Award at the 17th Annual Juried Exhibit of the League of NH Craftsmen in 1992. If not for that award which you and Norman created, my father's Fruit Bowl would probably not have made its way to the permanent collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The friendship my father and Norman forged after winning the Stevens Metal Award was meaningful and important to my Dad. My family and I are sorry for your loss, and we hope to see you at Sunapee in 2019!
I am certain one of the highlights of my father, Raymond's, pewter craft career was winning the prestigious Stevens Metal Award at the 17th Annual Juried Exhibit of the League of NH Craftsmen in 1992. If not for that award which you and Norman created, my father's Fruit Bowl would probably not have made its way to the permanent collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The friendship my father and Norman forged after winning the Stevens Metal Award was meaningful and important to my Dad. My family and I are sorry for your loss, and we hope to see you at Sunapee in 2019!
Message from Harriet Walker
December 20, 2018 4:52 PM
Dear Nora, My deepest sympathies on this painful loss. I hope I can be there when you need me....as you have been for me.
Message from Sue Robishaw & Steve Schmeck, Cooks MI
December 19, 2018 9:53 PM
Though we've only known Norman these past 16 years via internet, email and handwritten notes, it feels as though we knew him in person. He certainly had a larger impact on our lives than our one (quite full) file folder conveys. I’m not a saver of things but I do have all his notes. He could put so much in a few words. Steve and I connected with him through his love of the art and craft of wood and his enormous encouragement and support of artisans. I say Norman but he often made clear that Nora was very much with him in all this so we felt connected to her as well. It’s been a relationship we have thoroughly enjoyed beyond just the conveying of artwork.
He was so generous in his sharing, in spite of his busy life, sending a note or photo of some piece or exhibit he thought we might like. When we first met Norman we only knew of a few folks who carved spoons, and fewer (none?) who carved bowls as Steve did. He told us of other spoon carvers and it was a treat to hear about them. He made sure to put me in touch with another woman carver, folks with similar lifestyles. We were amazed early on that he included us in that initial dozen or so carvers he asked to make spoons for a small spoon collection he had in mind. I pictured he and Nora having friends over for tea and ice cream, each using a different spoon from the set. I believe that amazing collection grew to over 400 spoons from that many artists! I don’t know many people who could (and would) inspire and facilitate a happening such as that. And that collection will continue connecting and inspiring and creating joy down the road.
It has been quite a wonder to learn now of the other parts of Norman’s life, and interesting it was. We so appreciate that we were able to connect with him in the small way that we were. The encouragement he gave artists and the joy he had for the art/craft he collected seemed to be so very much a natural part of his being. It came through in every correspondence we had with him, right up to the last. He will remain a special part of our lives. Sue & Steve
He was so generous in his sharing, in spite of his busy life, sending a note or photo of some piece or exhibit he thought we might like. When we first met Norman we only knew of a few folks who carved spoons, and fewer (none?) who carved bowls as Steve did. He told us of other spoon carvers and it was a treat to hear about them. He made sure to put me in touch with another woman carver, folks with similar lifestyles. We were amazed early on that he included us in that initial dozen or so carvers he asked to make spoons for a small spoon collection he had in mind. I pictured he and Nora having friends over for tea and ice cream, each using a different spoon from the set. I believe that amazing collection grew to over 400 spoons from that many artists! I don’t know many people who could (and would) inspire and facilitate a happening such as that. And that collection will continue connecting and inspiring and creating joy down the road.
It has been quite a wonder to learn now of the other parts of Norman’s life, and interesting it was. We so appreciate that we were able to connect with him in the small way that we were. The encouragement he gave artists and the joy he had for the art/craft he collected seemed to be so very much a natural part of his being. It came through in every correspondence we had with him, right up to the last. He will remain a special part of our lives. Sue & Steve
Message from Scott Rhoades
December 19, 2018 12:20 PM
I have had the good fortune of meeting Norman seven years ago as he reached out to me as an artist and invited me to show at Babbidge Library. Over those few short years Ellie and I would sometimes visit Norman and Nora and share ice cream and conversations about family, local history, art, collections, UConn and other fun topics.
Norman was a character of the highest qualities and his vast accomplishments benefitted others. Norman and Nora, what a team.
Scott and Ellie Rhoades
Norman was a character of the highest qualities and his vast accomplishments benefitted others. Norman and Nora, what a team.
Scott and Ellie Rhoades
Message from Julie and Kirk Stygar- Chaplin, CT
December 19, 2018 11:23 AM
To the entire Steven's family~ We were saddened to hear of Norman's passing. We hope in the days that follow, you will all garner strength from all your memories and find the love and family and friends to carry you through. Many blessings for the remembrance of the times you all shared together. Most warmly, Julie and Kirk Stygar
Message from Michael Kubeck
December 19, 2018 11:19 AM
Dear Nora, Such a sad announcement greeted me this morning as I picked up the local newspaper section. I did not know Norman personally but did so through our many conversations & reminiscences over the past few years. A true Renaissance man of many talents & inspirations. Am thinking of you during this trying time.
Message from Patty & Craig Dickinson
December 18, 2018 8:02 PM
Sandy & Dave - Our deepest condolences for your loss. While we never met Norman, it is clear his was a life well-lived and one of which to be proud. We are keeping you both, as well as Nora and the rest of the family, in our prayers for you to find comfort in your memories, and feel peace soon knowing that he is at rest. Much love - Craig & Patty
Message from Tom and Mary Wilsted
December 18, 2018 5:11 PM
I first met Norman over twenty years ago. I had applied to be Director of the Thomas J. Dodd Research Center. Mary and I met Norman and Nora during a huge winter snowstorm on an interview visit. Their warm welcome was the beginning of a long partnership centering on the Dodd Center, children’s literature, the Connecticut Bookfair and many other events.
When we were moving to Connecticut, Norman and Nora invited us to stay in their house while they were away as we were getting ready to move. That was the first of many generous kindnesses we received from them over the next dozen years.
When one reads of Norman’s many accomplishments, it is hard to imagine how this happened to someone so modest and self-effacing. Soon after my arrival as director, Norman offered to help promote and develop the Dodd Center. He said, “he didn’t want to get in the way” but his connections to donors, willingness to work on the Bookfair and help with fund raising were all welcome assistance to “the new kid on the block.”
Norman’s connections with authors and illustrators in the children’s book world were an invaluable asset. He and I went on a number of trips to visit potential donors but it was his connections that opened the door to both discussion and donations to the collection.
I only knew Norman in retirement but it didn’t seem like he was retired to me. He was constantly planning and/or installing exhibits, presiding over exhibit openings and helping me and Babbidge Library directors in numerous ways.
Norman was a true gentleman as well as a gentle man. He will be missed.
Tom Wilsted
Thomas J. Dodd Center Director Emeritus
When we were moving to Connecticut, Norman and Nora invited us to stay in their house while they were away as we were getting ready to move. That was the first of many generous kindnesses we received from them over the next dozen years.
When one reads of Norman’s many accomplishments, it is hard to imagine how this happened to someone so modest and self-effacing. Soon after my arrival as director, Norman offered to help promote and develop the Dodd Center. He said, “he didn’t want to get in the way” but his connections to donors, willingness to work on the Bookfair and help with fund raising were all welcome assistance to “the new kid on the block.”
Norman’s connections with authors and illustrators in the children’s book world were an invaluable asset. He and I went on a number of trips to visit potential donors but it was his connections that opened the door to both discussion and donations to the collection.
I only knew Norman in retirement but it didn’t seem like he was retired to me. He was constantly planning and/or installing exhibits, presiding over exhibit openings and helping me and Babbidge Library directors in numerous ways.
Norman was a true gentleman as well as a gentle man. He will be missed.
Tom Wilsted
Thomas J. Dodd Center Director Emeritus
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