Dr. Norman A. Lister

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Dr. Norman Lister announces his passing on May 14, 2025.

Raised in the quiet community of Upper Mills, New Brunswick, with his parents, the late Kenneth and Mary Lister and siblings.  Norman developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors from an early age.  Whether hunting, fishing, or simply walking in the woods, he found peace and purpose in nature—a grounding force throughout his life.

Norman dedicated nearly 50 years to practicing medicine, serving the people of St. Stephen and surrounding areas with tireless commitment and compassion.  He didn’t just treat his patients—he truly felt their joys and sorrows, carrying their happiness and hardships with him long after the day was done.  Known for his genuine care, quick wit and unwavering dedication, he was a beloved physician to generations of families.  Patients often spoke of his deep empathy, humility, and the rare comfort he brought into exam rooms.  For many, he was more than a doctor—he was a confidant, a steady presence, and a friend.

Outside of medicine, Norman’s curiosity about the world was insatiable.  He loved gardening, studying animals, plants, and the stars—always eager to understand how things worked and to share what he knew.  He had a gift for teaching, offering up random but fascinating facts that made everyone around him feel a little smarter.  He was, without a doubt, the most intelligent person many of us ever knew.

He found joy in the simple and meaningful: talking with his patients long after appointments ended, cooking huge meals for his family or spending time with his beloved pets.  In younger years, he treasured time at the camp with friends and more recently, he was never more than a phone call away—showing up at his children’s homes in the middle of the night to check on a sick grandchild, always ready with calm reassurance and expert care.

Norman was a man of quiet strength, deeply rooted values, and boundless generosity.  He loved his community fiercely and found meaning in the everyday acts of service that defined his life and career. He will be remembered not only for the lives he saved but for the lives he touched—with kindness, dedication, and deep respect for every person who walked through his door.

He gave his life to caring for others and his spirit will live on in the community he so dearly loved.  His family believes he is now finally enjoying retirement, casting lines into calm waters with his dog Nikki by his side. 

The family would like to say "Thank you" to the nurses at the Charlotte County Hospital, St Stephen, New Brunswick and to the staff at EMP for all the love and care they have shown him.

He is survived by his wife, Wendy, his five children; Jeffrey, Susan (Robert), Mackenzie (Clinton), Nate (Brooke), and Bronwyn (Spencer).  His legacy also lives on through his cherished grandchildren; Ryan, Emery, Lane, Mae, Baker, Lawson, Ashen, Atlas, and Milo, who brought him great joy and pride, siblings; Gene Lister and Janet Caldwell, father-in-law; Roger Stewart, several sisters and brother-in-law, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Norman was predeceased by is brothers; Gregory Lister and Gordon Lister and mother-in-law; Doris Stewart.

The family will receive friends at The S.O. Mehan & Son Funeral Home Ltd, 23 Main Street St. Stephen, New Brunswick on Thursday May 22, 2025, from 1 – 4 pm and 6 – 8 pm.

A family private graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Charlotte County Hospital Foundation Inc., where he worked for most of his career.  Condolences can be sent to the family online at mehanfuneralhome.ca