Obituary of Norman Arthur Rice

Norman Arthur Rice "NA", 69, of Bemus Point, New York and St. Pete Beach, Florida, passed away in Bemus Point on Saturday, February 27, 2016 with his brother, Jack by his side. Norm was born in Rochester, NY, February 15, 1947, youngest son of the late Winston C. and Anna B. Rice, long-time residents of Bemus Point. He was a graduate of Bemus Point Central High School (1969) and Colgate University (1973). His career covered flying C130's in the USAF and USAF Reserves and Boeing 747's for Northwest Airlines. His life centered around flying and spending time with his family and many friends. Norm was an avid water sportsman. Much of his life's activities focused near waterways: Mound, Minnesota, St. Pete Beach, Florida, and Bemus Point, New York. His loves included international travel, Harleys, RVs, ATVs, boating, golf, tennis, racquet ball, along with all the social interactions associated with these activities. Norm was an active member of the Ellery VFW, Fluvanna War Vets, Jamestown, NY and St.Pete Beach area American Legions, among other clubs. The See-Zurh House, Italian Fisherman, Ye Hare 'n Hounds, Steener's Pub, and Lenhart Hotel were his favorite 'haunts' in Bemus Point where he would hang with friends. His St. Pete Beach favorite 'haunts' are too numerous to list. Norm opened his homes in Bemus Point, NY and St. Pete Beach, FL to many people over the years. Many organizations and people benefitted from his generosity. Norm is survived by two brothers, Don (Sandy) of San Jose, CA and Jack (Kathy) of Colorado Springs, CO. He had three nephews, David of San Francisco, CA, Bill of Stevenson Ranch, CA, Chris of Golden, CO and one niece, Danielle of Louisville, CO. The family extends their gratitude to Chautauqua County Hospice, the staff of Team Care Services, and Norm's many friends who supported him during his illness. Per Norm's request, there will be no memorial service or visitation. Memorials may be made to Ellery VFW Post 557, P.O. Box 358, Bemus Point, NY 14712 or to the Bemus Point Methodist Church, 4954 Bemus Point-Ellery Rd, Bemus Point, NY 14712.