‘Profound sadness’ at death of 107-year-old Second World War veteranNorman Irwin was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours last year.Norman Irwin (Niall Carson/PA)PA ArchiveRebecca Black6 minutes ago
Tributes have been paid to Second World War veteran Norman Irwin, who has died at the age of 107.
Mr Irwin, who was Northern Ireland’s oldest man, served in north Africa during the war before going on to make a difference in his home town of Coleraine.
He helped to form Coleraine Winemakers Club and was one of the founders of the town’s Rotary Club and the Agivey Anglers Association.
He was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours last year with a British Empire Medal (BEM).
His grandson Chris paid tribute to his grandfather as a “proud WW2 veteran” and a “pillar of the local community”.
“It is with profound sadness that our family announces the passing of my grandfather, Sergeant Norman Irwin BEM,” he said.
“A proud WWII veteran who served across north Africa and Italy with the Coleraine Battery, Royal Artillery and REME (Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers), Norman was Ireland and Northern Ireland’s oldest man at 107, a British Empire Medal recipient, and a pillar of the local community.
“To the world, he was a hero and a piece of history, but to us, he was simply Papa. His warmth, wit and wisdom guided our family for generations and always with a glass of Bushmills.
“Norman exemplified the REME motto, Arte et Marte (By Skill and By Fighting).
“Rest easy. Your watch is finally over, but your legacy will live on in every single one of us.
“We will miss him deeply and will share details regarding his funeral arrangements in due course.”
Norman Irwin (Family handout/PA)PA Media
Causeway Coast and Glens Council expressed “great sadness” at Mr Irwin’s death.
Mayor Dawn Huggins said he was “held in such high esteem throughout the borough”.
“He participated in many council events over the years, and we also hosted several mayors’ receptions for this humble man, who lived for 107 years,” she said.
“We will miss his humour and wit, his years of wisdom and most of all, his anecdotes on how to live a long live.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family circle and friends at this difficult time.”
Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner David Johnstone said: “Born in 1918, Norman was Northern Ireland’s oldest living person. During the Second World War, he served in eight countries and played a vital role in protecting the Suez Canal from German attacks.
“His dedication to others continued long after his military service. In 2025, Norman was awarded the British Empire Medal in recognition of his extensive voluntary work in his County Londonderry home town, including his involvement with the Cross Community Club for retirees.
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“Norman’s extraordinary life was defined by stamina, commitment, dedication and service.
“We commend his remarkable contribution to his country and community, and extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
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