Norman A. Erie Obituary

Norman A. Erie, MD, age 94, passed away peacefully with family at his side on March 28, 2026.

Born in Leeds, North Dakota, and raised in Eureka, Montana, Norm developed a lifelong love of hunting and fishing. He excelled in both academics and basketball during his school years. It was in high school that he first met his future wife, Irene Konecny, who would become his steadfast partner and greatest supporter, encouraging him to pursue higher education.

After graduating high school, Norm attended the College of Great Falls. During his college years, he proposed to Irene, beginning a marriage that would span 61 years and bless them with four children. With Irene’s continued encouragement, Norm applied to and was accepted by the University of Washington School of Medicine.

Following his graduation in 1958, Norm served four years as a medical officer in the United States Navy. After his discharge, he and Irene, along with their young family, settled in Richland, Washington. There, he established a family medicine practice that served the community for nearly 30 years. In recognition of his dedication and compassionate care, he was honored in 1988 as Family Doctor of the Year by the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

In 1991, Norm and Irene retired to Whidbey Island, where they embraced a new chapter filled with friendship, relaxation, and time together. Norm especially enjoyed golfing, forming many lasting friendships on the course. In his final years, he moved to Mount Vernon to be closer to family.

Norm is survived by his sons, Michael (Amy) and Peter; his daughter, Rebecca Riley; his daughter-in-law, Janice Erie; and his brother Gene Erie. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Irene, and his son, Leigh.

Norm will be remembered as an inspiring and devoted physician, a loving father, and a loyal husband. He took great joy in the accomplishments of his children and cherished the close relationships he built with his grandchildren. He encouraged his family to embrace life fully and to “get out and have some fun”.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church in Mount Vernon on April 10th at 12:15 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Hospice of the Northwest.