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Norm McLeod: Congratulations to Norman McLeod on his retirement from the ILWU! Norm’s last day was September 30. He has spent the last several years serving his fellow Longshoremen and their families as the EAP for the San Francisco ILWU-PMA Alcohol & Drug Recovery Program.
Norman’s retirement motto was “65, 42, 23”. Those numbers represent his life; 65 years old, 42 years as a Longshoreman, and 23 years in recovery. It is interesting to note that Norm was 23 years old when he became a Longshoreman and leaves his post with that exact number of years clean and sober.
Norman worked hard in his life. Among other things, he was a Tractor Trainer for the ILWU for 14 years. He was a patient and diligent teacher who cared about the folks he was teaching, turning out well-qualified and safe operators. And more than someone with a great work ethic, Norm has a great heart. It was the combination of those attributes that had George Cobbs asking Norm to sub for him as the EAP for the Alcohol and Drug Recovery Program when he traveled. Over time, Norm studied and worked, creating his own reputation for helping others find their place in recovery. It was Norm who George passed the torch to when he retired.
Norm is a quiet, unassuming force. He requires no accolades, seeks no special commendations. Norm goes along, often behind the scenes, making things work. He is the guy who comes early for meetings and makes coffee, he’s the guy who arranges for the food and the beverages at the picnic, he’s the guy who quietly helps his own union brothers and sisters and the families and friends that come with them. He will do whatever he can for people in need. He is also the grandfather who makes sure his grandbabies know they’re special to him. They have their regular dates with their granddad at their favorite restaurants. Norman has quietly gone through his life making a difference. Is there a better definition of success?
Again, congratulations Norm. Go on. Enjoy your life, have fun, relax. And know you are missed!
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