Obituary

Long time Lopez Island, Washington resident, Norma J. Brimmer, age 93, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Hospice House in Bellingham, Washington.

Norma was born in Denver, Colorado on October 9, 1931, to Albert E. Schillo and Myrtle L. Cutler. She earned her Water Safety Instructor certification and was a swim instructor and lifeguard for many years, and performed in synchronized swimming shows in the Denver area. In the winter months, she was a ski instructor at Lake Eldora ski area in Nederland, Colorado. Additionally, she worked as a dental assistant for many years.

Norma married William G. Brimmer on June 12, 1966, in a small chapel in Gold Hill, outside of Boulder, Colorado. After living in Colorado and Florida, Bill and Norma moved to Casper, Wyoming. Norma became an avid golfer and racquet ball player. She was part of the art community in Casper and enjoyed weaving and designing and making pottery.

Bill and Norma started building their own home on Lopez Island, Washington in 1982 and moved full time to the island in 1988. Norma volunteered immediately with the Thrift Shop and became a President of the Board in the 1980s. She was involved with Birthday Club, Ladies Golf Association, and as a volunteer with Meals on Wheel/Senior Lunch. She was known for her skill making salads and killer deviled eggs. In recognition of their service to the Thrift Shop, Bill and Norma were Grand Marshalls of the Fourth of July parade in 2012. They also helped run the very successful Lopez Island Spinners and Weavers. Norma was known for her popular mug rugs and denim floor rugs.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Albert E. Schillo Jr. and Norman D. Schillo. She is survived by beloved husband Bill Brimmer, daughters Sheri Vasquez (Colin), Port Orchard WA; Jari Holmes (Ron), Casper WY; Tammy Hayden-Hughes (Brad), Casper WY; Dr. Scott Hayden (Melody), Ft. Collins CO; eight grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren (with another on the way) and one great great grandchild.

Norma loved living on Lopez and one of her greatest joys was the week every June that the entire family gathered on Lopez to celebrate as a family. Norma will be greatly missed by her family and friends