Norman Awill's Obituary
IN LOVING MEMORY
Norman Vicente Awill
October 28, 1950-Aprill 19, 2023
Our beloved Norman Vicente Awill, at the age of 72, passed away at his home in Oakland, California, on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. Norman spent his last moments with Bobbie Camacho, his loving spouse and devoted partner of 40 years. Norman’s passing was sudden, unexpected, and came about from natural causes. Despite experiencing several health challenges in recent years, he remained resilient and positive throughout and up til his passing.
Born in La Ceiba, Honduras, Norman was the first-born son of mother, Ruby Everett Awill, and father, Norman V. Awill. Norman’s family emigrated to the United States (US) in 1964. Settling in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Awill family contributed to the diverse cultural background of the Crescent City. Their Honduran heritage is enriched by Garifuna (African), Irish, and Palestinian roots that expanded the deep cultural palette of 1960s New Orleans.
Norman attended high school in New Orleans and studied at Louisiana State University-New Orleans, until he was drafted into the US Army in 1971. Norman served two years in the Army, deploying to Panama until his honorable discharge in 1973. After his military term, Norman later relocated to California to attend San Francisco State University (SFSU) and majored in Psychology and Film which were to become two of his life's passions. He then laid roots in Oakland, California, where Norman became ingrained within the social and political heartbeat of the progressive movement marching to the chants of Si Si Puede! Venceremos! and public sentiment opposing US intervention in Central and Latin America. When Norman was not on the front lines advocating for social justice at home and abroad, he enjoyed the beautiful weather and boundless opportunities offered throughout the Greater Bay Area and California. His love for the outdoors included gardening, photography, bicycling, camping, fishing, soccer, and an active member of the American Kite Flyers Association. He enjoyed flying his stunt kite from the shores of the Berkeley Marina (California) to the beaches of Hawaii.
Norman was committed to helping others and pursued a career serving underrepresented populations in behavioral health and social services that spanned over 30 years. He excelled as a mental health counselor, therapist, clinical social worker and youth counselor at several social service agencies, and community-based organizations. His passion and skills in video photography led him to teach high school students video production and tutor at-risk students. Norman blended his inherent humanism with projects, and a profession that allowed him to utilize his incredible skillset on behalf of those communities in need. Norman was a tireless advocate and compassionate fighter that believed in the individual right to dignity and self-respect and the broader pursuit for social justice, human rights and world peace.
Norman was a chef extraordinaire who delighted us with his delicious jambalaya, gumbo and countless savoring and unforgettable dishes. Much like his personality and cultural background, his dishes were globally inspired, authentic, and infused the love and joy that embodied his life. Whether it be the cuisine of New Orleans, traditional Honduran dishes, or the island of Guam, his food reflected the world in which he inhabited. His love for culture expanded beyond food – from a love of Blues, R&B, Folk, World Beat, and Latin Jazz – to singing traditional Latin American boleros. He loved and embraced the music, drumming and folkloric traditions of Afro Cuban culture and always enjoyed jamming with fellow congueros at home or Sunday Rumbas at the La Pena Cultural Center in Berkeley, CA.
Through his special bond with Bobbie, Norman's family and close relatives extended from Honduras, New Orleans, New York, Connecticut, California, Hawaii and to the island of Guam. Though they had no children, Norman and Bobbie are beloved by many nieces and nephews who shared a special connection with him as a "favorite Uncle." Norman developed meaningful relationships in providing counsel, mentorship and respect. Together, Bobbie and Norman raised their two Staffordshire pit-bull terriers, Guapo and Chula (and Choco and Latte before them), who also miss his presence in their lives.
Norman is survived by his wife Bobbie Camacho; mother, Ruby Awill; brother, Jose and his wife Mary Awill; brother, Alan Awill; and nephews, Matthew Awill, Justine Awill, Bryant and his wife Dee Awill
Norman will be remembered as he was compassionate, kind, and non-judgmental. While we are devastated by Norman’s passing, we are also grateful for the many ways he enriched our lives. We will miss his smile, charm, wit, sense of humor and the unforgettable dishes he prepared. Our memories will always be cherished as we remember Norman (Namito) a loving husband, son and brother, favorite uncle, and trusted friend. His passion, and unending humanity for others are parts of him that we will always keep within us and allow Norman to remain a bright light in our lives. With our love and aloha to Norman -forever loved and always remembered!
We invite you to share your thoughts, condolences, and memories of Norman on this memorial page of the Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland. A special fund will be setup to assist his wife, Bobbie Camacho, for the difficult days ahead. Mahalo for your love and support!
Condolences, contributions, and messages are welcomed at:
Bobbie Camacho
PO Box 18701
Oakland, CA. 94619
What’s your fondest memory of Norman?
What’s a lesson you learned from Norman?
Share a story where Norman's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Norman you’ll never forget.
How did Norman make you smile?