Norman Thomas Shopay, 61, of Benicia, CA passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 10th. He was born in New Britain, CT, grew up in Bristol, CT and graduated from Bristol Eastern High School in 1968. He joined the United States Marine Corps and served during the Vietnam War from 1968-1972. Following his discharge, he graduated from Southampton College of Long Island University with a B.S. degree in Marine Science and Geology. He later attended graduate school at Texas A&M studying Geology and Environmental Studies.
Norman worked for the State of California, Department of Toxic Substances Control as a hydrogeologist and grant writer for several years. In 1992, Norman and his wife Nancy formed their own environmental consulting firm, Envirometrix Corporation. In 2010, Norman became the General Manager for the McKinleyville Community Services District in Humboldt County.
Norman was President of the McKinleyville Rotary Club; he was an avid fisherman and golfer, a good cook and a collector of fine wine. He was a certified boat captain and had a private pilot's license. Norman enjoyed travelling and spending time with good friends.
A Memorial Mass and Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 19th at St. Dominic's Church, 475 East I Street, Benicia, CA.
Donations can be sent to the American Cancer Society’s Vallejo Relay for Life. Arrangements are under the direction of Passalacqua Funeral Chapel, Benicia. Please visit the online tribute at www.passalacquafuneralchapel.com.
