In Memoriam: Dr. Norman Wardlaw, Faculty of Science

The University of Calgary is saddened by the loss of Dr. Norman Claude Wardlaw, who passed away on Oct. 9 at the age of 89.

Wardlaw, PhD, a professor emeritus and former head in the Department of Geology and Geophysics (now Earth, Energy and Environment), joined the Faculty of Science in 1971. He served as department head between 1979 and 1982 before retiring in 1993.

Norman is being remembered as an enthusiastic educator who always had time for questions and, his obituary says, "particularly loved field trips to the mountains with his students."

As a reservoir geologist, Wardlaw was internationally recognized for research on fluid flow through porous media.

“His innovative work on pore-scale processes had applications to the flow of oil, gas and water in subsurface reservoirs, and he also made groundbreaking contributions to the geochemistry of prairie evaporites,” says Dr. Edwin Cey, PhD, department head for Earth, Energy and Environment.

Wardlaw’s illustrious career led to numerous achievements including the Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists Link Award, Medal of Merit for a Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists paper, and a lifetime-achievement award from the Society of Core Analysts. 

He was also elected a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 1998.

“Norman was a true Rock Star!” reads his obituary.

Wardlaw was described as charming and charismatic with an ability to connect with others, and as someone who loved nature, animals and the great outdoors.

His favourite activities included cross-country skiing, hiking, mountaineering and kayaking, pastimes he shared with his family.

Norman will be missed by his family, friends and the university community. 

His memorial service will be held at the Earl Grey Golf Club on Friday, Nov. 7.