The family of Norah Mary Corsie is heartbroken to share that she passed away on July 18, 2026, at the age of “95 and a half.” She was born in Fort William, Ontario on December 27, 1930 to George and Nettie Corsie, being the second of four daughters.
Norah grew up on North Syndicate Avenue and in Pearson Twp. At just 17 years old, she married and moved to Beardmore, ON before returning to Fort William where she lived on Moodie Street. Later, she made her home in Pine Bay (in Neebing) and then settled into her apartment at 130 W. Donald St where she spent over three decades.
In her younger days, Norah was an enthusiastic curler which sparked a lasting love for the sport. She always cheered for her favorites and wasn’t shy about sharing which teams didn’t impress her.
When she was in her early 20’s, Norah picked up the guitar and along with her then-husband Roy, they entertained at various local bars. Even in later years, her musical talent remained strong; alongside her son Melvin, she performed at seniors’ homes until she turned 94. Many were amazed by her yodeling skills. Her favorite spot was the Thursday night “Jam Session” at Unifor hall on Gore Street where she loved singing and spending time with friends. Always ready for a good party, Norah enjoyed playing guitar and singing along to ensure everyone had a great time.
For more than 16 summers, Norah cherished trips to Waweig Lake with a special friend. They would stay at his cabin fishing nearby lakes and often caught their limit. In the fall months, they hunted together and relished being outdoors. Both welcomed family and friends to Waweig because everyone knew it was always “12 noon.”
Norah adored her three children: Nora Lynn, Melvin, and George. She took pride in them and spoke about them frequently. When meeting new people, she’d proudly mention that her daughter lives in Sweden while one son played guitar for audiences; as for the youngest? “Well he’s the baby of the family.” She also loved being a grandmother and great-grandmother.
She will be missed dearly by daughter Nora Lynn Carlsson (Hans); sons Melvin Matson and George Matson (Maryann Baarts); granddaughters Mandi Matson (Francisco Cabrita), Saralynn Swärdh (Johan), Jordee Matson (Jake Switzer) as well as grandson Nathan Matson (Tara Tesolin). Great-granddaughters include Bianca Wiljebrand and Jorja Switzer along with great-grandsons Noel Wiljebrand, Clark Matson, David Matson Jewer , and Jonah Swärdh; plus many nieces and nephews.
Norah was predeceased by parents George and Nettie (Mc Collum) Corsie; sisters Wilma Heywood; Betty Mighton; Shirley Buckman; also daughter-in-law Elizabeth (Bachmaier) Matson.
A Celebration of Life will take place on September 17, 2026 from 1pm-4pm at Unifor Hall located at 112 Gore St W.
If you raise a glass in honor of Norah’s memory-her favorites were an “ice cold” beer or rum & coke.
