In loving memory ~
Norman Costigan was born in Banff, Alberta, to Dr. Patrick and Mrs. Mary Costigan. He loved his hometown deeply and took great pride in sharing stories of his upbringing in the Rockies. He attended school in Banff before heading to the University of Alberta in 1967, where he lived at St. Joe's on campus and formed lifelong friendships. After earning a degree in science, he followed in the footsteps of his late father and pursued medicine, graduating from medical school in 1977.
In 1978, after marrying his university sweetheart, Arlene, Norm embarked on his lifelong journey in psychiatry. He spent countless hours at the Red Deer Regional Hospital, eventually serving as Chief of Psychiatry for 15 years. A passionate educator, he shared his expertise with nursing students at Red Deer College, contributed numerous articles to psychiatric journals, and served as an honorary teaching fellow at the University of Alberta. Norm served on numerous boards, including over 20 years with the Canadian Mental Health Association, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the mental health community.
In addition to his clinical work, Norm was a passionate and tireless advocate for marginalized communities. He was deeply committed to improving access to mental health services and breaking down barriers for those most in need. His close collaboration with the Safe Harbor Society allowed him to play a pivotal role in advancing mental health initiatives across Central Alberta. Over the course of his distinguished career, he received numerous accolades in recognition of his exceptional contributions. His profound impact was most notably acknowledged in 2009 when he was honoured with the C.M. Hincks Award, Canada's most prestigious honour in mental health, a testament to his lifelong mission of improving the lives of others. Norm's advocacy and tireless work in this field have left a profound and lasting legacy on the mental health landscape across the province.
Despite the demanding nature of his career, Norm embraced life with an unshakable adventurous spirit. He travelled extensively, sailed many coastlines around the world, and motorbiked solo across New Zealand. Never one to shy away from a challenge, he taught himself to hang glide, went scuba diving with sharks, and explored dusty roads less travelled on his little red dirt bike. Amid these bold endeavours, he also found joy in the simpler moments, such as a trip to Dairy Queen for ice cream in his treasured '68 Camaro. However, his greatest passion remained skiing. Even at 74, while undergoing chemotherapy, he managed to ski 42 times in a single season- a true testament to his resilience and deep love for the mountains.
After retiring, Norm and Arlene settled in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, where they embraced "island life" to the fullest. Together, they continued to sail, kayak, hike, bike, and share countless sunsets with family and friends. In the past two years, Norm cherished his role as 'Papa Normie' to his beloved granddaughter, Roca.
Though he is no longer with us, his legacy of compassion, dedication, and excellence lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Arlene; his daughters, Ashley and Natasha (Max); and his granddaughter, Roca. He is also mourned by his sister, Peggy (Dick), brother Gerald (Kim), brothers-in-law Doug (Kris) and Murray (Kit), nieces and nephews Patrick, Allison, Tyler, Geoff, Gina, Holly, Lori, Lisa and countless old and new friends. Norm's laid-back charm, quick wit, and adventurous spirit touched the hearts of all who were privileged to know him.
A memorial service will be held on March 29th at 1 p.m. at the Red Deer Golf and Country Club. If desired, donations can be made to the Red Deer Safe Harbour Society at https://safeharboursociety.org/donate/ or to an organization of your choice.
To leave a condolence for the family please visit www.qbmemorials.ca
Service Details
1:00 PM