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It is with sadness that IIW announces the passing of Dr. Norman Frank Eaton, past President of IIW (1990–1993).

He deceased on 28 March 2021, in his 90th year. Norman was deeply loved by his wife of 59 years, Enid Kathleen, daughter Hilary (Michael), son Matthew, and daughter Veronica (Susan).

Dr. Norman Eaton was born in Wales and became a Metallurgical Engineer after graduating from the University of Wales. Before emigrating to Canada, he was the Head of the Welding Research Centre at the CEGB Marchwood Research Laboratories in Southampton, UK. In 1974, he moved to Canada with his family to become the Executive Director of the Canadian Welding Development Institute (CWDI) and then, on amalgamation with the Canadian Welding Society (CWS) in 1979, President of the Welding Institute of Canada (WIC) until 1990.

Over a 20-year period, he was heavily involved with the International Institute of Welding (IIW) as a Vice-President, Treasurer, and then President from 1990 to 1993. He was subsequently awarded the highest IIW award, The Walter Edström Medal. In 1992, he was recruited to become the Executive Director of the CRC for Materials Welding and Joining based at the University of Wollongong. He was charged with building up the CRC from its inception to a well-established and functioning organization providing research to meet the identified needs of Australian industry. At the end of his term in 1996, he returned to Canada for a well-earned retirement.

Norman enjoyed sailing, rugby, cricket, and squash in his younger years. He was a very proud father to his children always interested in their lives. Norman enjoyed building furniture and renovating. He also enjoyed building miniature furniture for his daughter’s doll houses and became very skilled at it.