Norman Irwin, the oldest living man in Northern Ireland, passed away on 2 September in Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, at the age of 107 years, 289 days. He is the oldest known man ever to have died in Northern Ireland.
Irwin was born on 17 November 1918.
He was a veteran of the Second World War. He volunteered in April 1939, joining the Coleraine Battery of the Royal Artillery as a gunner. Before long, he found himself in the searing heat of the North African desert, battling Rommel’s forces in campaigns that spanned thousands of miles. At one point, when tools were scarce, he even improvised and engineered his own guns. In 1942, he became one of the founding members of the newly formed Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME). He rose swiftly to the rank of sergeant and served with distinction until the war’s end.
After returning home, he married his wife, Margaret, whom he had met while in Hawick, Scotland, in 1947. They went on to have four children, while Norman enjoyed a long and successful career as an engineer in Coleraine.
In 2025, he was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his voluntary work in his hometown in County Londonderry, including his involvement with a cross-community club for retirees.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Norman Irwin during this difficult time.
