Norm M. Bower

Kingston- Norman M. Bower, 88, of Kingston, NH, a devoted Senior Chief Quartermaster (SS) of the United States Navy and dedicated Police Chief, passed away on April 13, 2024, after bravely battling late-onset Alzheimer's disease for ten years. Born in Newton, NH, Norm graduated from Sanborn Seminary in Kingston, NH, in 1953. He was a true patriot, dedicating himself to two consecutive careers in service to his country and community. Norman's 21-year tenure in the Navy saw him serve on several submarines, including the USS Diablo, USS Spikefish, USS Angler, USS Pogy, and USS Sargo. Notably, he served as an NROTC Instructor in Submarine Navigation at the University of Mississippi ("Ole Miss") in the early 1970s. His most cherished time in the Navy was spent aboard the USS Albacore from 1959 to 1969, where he rose to the esteemed position of Chief of the Boat (COB). Transitioning to civilian life, Norman brought the discipline and leadership skills honed in the Navy to the Kingston Police Department, where he served as Deputy Chief. He concluded his 20-year law enforcement career as the Chief of Police in Newton, NH, where he served for eight years. Norman's commitment to service extended beyond his professional roles. He volunteered at Albacore Park in Portsmouth, NH, from 2002 to 2015 and played an active role as a board member of the Portsmouth Submarine Memorial Association. As a founding member of Friends of Albacore, now known as "Shipmates," he worked tirelessly to preserve the legacy of naval service. Norman's legacy is carried on by his cherished wife of 65 years, Glenda, his daughter Jean Marie (affectionately known as Bunny) and her husband David Smith, as well as his adoring granddaughter Mary and her husband Wei Dai. He was preceded in death by his infant son, his father Claude, his mother Mary (Fleming), his sister Pauline Danley, and brothers Claude Jr. (Mike) and Robert. A graveside service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, June 1, 2024 in Union Cemetery, Newton. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Portsmouth Submarine Memorial Association at 569 Albacore Way, Portsmouth, NH 03801 or online at www.ussalbacore.org Norman will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to duty, his steadfast leadership, and his profound impact on the lives of those he served and loved. He leaves behind a legacy of service and sacrifice that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Norm M. Bower

February 18, 1936 - April 13, 2024