Obituary – Norma Klaassen

Bowls North Harbour has lost a great servant, particularly of its match committee, with the passing this week of Norma Klaassen.

Up until recent seasons, despite being into her 80s, Norma was a regular and accurate recorder of centre tournaments and inter-club competitions. She had more than 20 years in this role and for her work was recognised in 2021 with a centre life-time achievement award.

Norma joined the Manly club with her husband in 1992 and soon proved herself a competent player, winning the club’s first year singles title and, while never a centre champion, in subsequent years added a host of club titles.

She came to bowls with a formidable record in other sports, notably tennis and basketball. She began tennis as a seven-year old volleying balls against a wall at the Wellington Central Fire Station where her father had been the chief fire officer. In later years in Auckland her coach was the former top New Zealand player Allan Burns and in top inter-club grades she was the doubles partner of another leading player, Cecily Fleming.

Her brother, Allan Bruce, excelled in basketball and was captain of the New Zealand national team.

From her working background as an architectural draughtswoman and in interior design, Norma brought a meticulous approach to her recording and her attention to detail also made her an excellent administrator. She served Manly in many roles and was made a life member of that club.

Bowls North Harbour extends its condolences to Norma’s family. Her contribution to the centre will be always treasured.