Norman H. Monette

Norman H. Monette  -   May 23, 1937-March 6, 2024

Norman Homer Monette passed away peacefully and unexpectedly at home, surrounded by his family on March 6, 2024. He was 86 years old.

Norm was born on May 23, 1937 in Mooers Forks, New York. He loved farming, logging, operating “Norms” but especially car shows and car cruises. But loved especially being around family.

He was the eldest of seven children. He enlisted into the Air Force in 1955. He served his country in active duty and then continued his service in the Army National Guard for 22 years.

In 1959 he purchased his “First Love”, a gold 1957 Chevy, more famously known as the “Flying Farmer”. He dragged raced this car throughout the North Country, Canada, and Vermont, winning many of these races.

Then in 1968, Norm met his beloved Shirley. They married in June of 1969 and together they raised four daughters.

 During his lifetime Norm touched many lives through his numerous occupations. He started his undeniable work ethic early on the family farm in Moriah. He then went on to hold positions as a miner, the proprietor of “Norms”, proprietor of Monette Logging, and was the cafeteria manager at Moriah Central School where he finally retired.

After retiring he decided to restore the ‘Flying Farmer” and started to take the car to car shows, car cruises, parades and many benefits throughout the North Country and Vermont. It is during this time that his passion for racing and reliving the old days shined. People from near and far loved to hear him and his stories he shared.

Norm was a lifetime member of VFW Post 5802 in Mineville, New York.

Norman is survived by his wife of 55 years, Shirley; his daughters Marcia (Martin) Chapuk Jr., Melissa (Steven) Staples, Starla Monette and Paula Monette (Eric Quain); one sister, Betty Ann Benner; four grandchildren Marty, Hailey, Samantha and Hunter and one great grandson, Cypress- The lights of his life.

He is predeceased by his parents, Clifford and Flora Monette and six siblings, Theresa, Maynard, Morris, Yvonne and Linda.

The void left behind by Norm’s absence will resound in our hearts. Words cannot convey our missing you. Those of you that had the privilege of knowing him, may the memories live on- Fly High and Race On!

The family would like to thank the staff of Elizabethtown Community Hospital for their professionalism and compassion shown to Norm during his stay there.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, March 10th from 4-7 at the Harland Funeral Home in Port Henry. A Christian Mass will be held on Monday, March 11th at 11:00 at St. Patrick’s Church in Port Henry. A gathering will follow at VFW Post 5802 in Mineville, NY. Burial will be at a later date in the South Moriah Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.