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On April 12, 2011, Norby suffered a complete spinal cord injury and C4/C5 break in his spine. After a brave, but short battle, he passed on the morning of April 24, 2011. The community at large has lost an incredible contributor. He had a true passion for friends, animals, physical activity, and for getting things done. Norby Beilschmidt was born in Worcester, Massachusetts on November 10, 1934. He graduated from Worcester Junior College and then entered the United States Army serving in the Korean War. After the war Norby landed in California where he attended La Verne College and continued his studies at Ventura College. Norby began working at Pt. Mugu as an Engineering Technician in 1956. He worked there for 31 years and retired in 1997. In 1961 Norby and Rosemary were married, although Rosemary and Norby didn't have children of their own, they loved the community of Ojai and as if they were their children for 56 years.
In the 1960's Norby began participating with the Los Padres Ski Club. He made countless ski trips in his infamous Big Blue Van to the Sierra's and the Rockies. Not any one member did as much for the ski club as Norby had done, arranging bonfires at the beach, community volunteering, teaching new comers, hosting large BBQ's at his beautiful property in Ojai, and making sure everyone had a good time. Because of his above and beyond commitment, in 1975 Norby was made a Lifetime Member. The club has never had another member receive such an honor.
Norby led an interesting and active lifestyle. He loved skiing, fishing, scuba diving, boating, ocean kayaking, hiking, running, cycling, and traveling and camping in his RV. When he finished building his boat in the 1960's he spent countless days and weekends with friends and family at Lake Nacimiento. He began running for health and fun in the 1970's, just before his 40th birthday. As near as we can tell, he began entering 5k and 10k runs in 1982. He then moved into training for longer runs, half marathon and full marathons. Norby enjoyed many running events year after year, like the Ventura Marathon, Ventura Seabreeze, and the Ojai 10k.
In March 1989, at the tender age of 56, our dear Norby began competing in Triathlons! We believe his first triathlon was Wildflower International Triathlon in 1989 and on his second go around he came in 5th Place for his age group. Yep, he didn't slow down, that's for sure! In 1991 he competed in the 1991 Oxnard Triathlon and came in 3rd place. This same year, Norby began to ride in the SCOR Solvang Prelude at age 58. Can you believe this guy?
In 1994, at the age of 59 Norby was the oldest competitor in the Pt. Mugu Admiral's Cup Triathlon. In Norby continued to participate in the Admiral's Cup Triathlon until 1998. If all that doesn't impress you, let me fill you in on a little more. In between all these sports related activities, Norby built his own home on his property, built a boat, and helped countless neighbors complete remodeling projects. He traveled all of the United States in his RV visiting family and friends. He also supported riders in the Race Across America (RAAM) in his RV. He attended weddings and graduations near and far. And always, he had that same great smile we loved so much.
By far Norby's most precious gift to this world was his time, which he willingly and frequently gave to anyone who asked. He always lent an ear and words of encouragement. "Top of the mornin' to ya" and "sure thing" and "can do" is what you heard most from Norby. I don't think you could find a soul who would say Norby complained. He plugged along happily and it enjoyed every minute to it's fullest. In retirement, he didn't really slow down. It just gave him more time to help others, do volunteer work, and enjoy the beauty in which he lived his life. He fostered kindness and deep friendships with all the people he met. During past seven years Norby volunteered three days a week at the Ventura County Humane Society.
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TRIBUTE TO A STRONG SOUL AND A GENTLE HEART FOR THE HUMANE SOCIETY
Norby held memberships with the Los Padres Ski Club, Ojai Valley Athletic Club, and Trinity Lutheran Church of Ventura. Some of you may be saying, 'goodness, did this guy ever relax?" He sure did, you couldn't have felt more relaxed with Norby, his laughter was truly infectious, he enjoyed the hot tub every week with friends, a beer or two, nice white wine with friends, and even a regular pit stop at the Whale's Tale in Oxnard. So if you ask yourself, if you can do more, the answer is YES. Norby would say, give it your best; do it with all your heart, with no regrets, and with no looking back (unless you are looking at the Sunset). Move forward, move forward, move forward. You shall live forever in our hearts, our gardens, and our memories forever.
Created by LJ Livingston June 2011. SCOR |
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