Ahead of his funeral, Geoff Norman’s entrepreneurial drive has been praised.

The 84-year-old retired businessman and former politician died on 15 November at his home in the Castel.

His loved ones – led by his wife Heather, children Kathryn, Judi, and Ben, and his grandchildren Ella, Rosa, and Poppy – will gather at the parish church today for a Service of Thanksgiving for his life alongside relatives, friends, former colleagues, and others.

His death was announced by Norman Piette earlier this month – with praise for his “pragmatic decision making and entrepreneurial drive that helped transform Norman Piette”.

“Under his leadership the business relocated to Bulwer Avenue, modernised its operations and set the course for what would later become the NP Group, now a pan Channel Island business.”

Although Mr Norman had retired from the board four years ago, his “vision and determination shaped so much of what the business has become today and his contribution will always be remembered,” said the company.

Mr Norman’s entrepreneurial drive was also referenced by the Deputy Bailiff this morning.

She described Mr Norman as “a great ambassador for Guernsey”.

“Amongst his many qualities, he was known for his compassion, his business acumen and for being a gentleman,” she said.

She told today’s States Members how the former Elizabeth College school boy was sent to the Brixton School of Building because his father, Jack Norman, told him he should learn about the building industry.

“On completing his diploma in 1964 he joined the family firm of J and D Norman becoming a Director in 1967,” she explained. “In 1973 he became the first Managing Director of Norman Piette, moving to be its Chairman in 1991. He did not retire from the board until 2021 after 54 years on the board.

“His entrepreneurial drive helped transform Norman Piette. Under his leadership, the business relocated to Bulwer Avenue, modernised its operations and set the course for what would later become the NP group, now a pan-Channel Island business. He was Chairman of Commodore Shipping, which his father set up, and he was also the Chairman of NP Holdings Group of Companies.”

By the time he was elected to the States in 1985, Mr Norman was President of the Guernsey Tomato Marketing Board.

His 20-year political career saw Mr Norman sit on various committees, said the Deputy Bailiff, including serving as President of the Tourist Board for almost his entire time in the States.