The work of his hands: Craftsman Don Norman is Fall City Days marshal

The cherry-wood cases are freshly stained, curing in a row, and other pieces of Don Normans latest big project, a custom kitchen island for a Lake Stevens home, are lined up nearby.

Hes set to deliver them today to the job site. Once this is done, doubtless another project will come up, like that long-delayed kitchen table restoration waiting near the door.

These woodworking jobs would provide a fun challenge for a man 20 or 30 years Dons junior. Yet, one might be surprised that a man of 82 is still this involved in the woodworking business. Then again, thats Dons way.

His wife Barbara would love to see her husband hang up the businessId rather he retired and did the yard, she says.

But Don loves the smell of sawdust. His adult life, and a good part of his teens, were spent in and around woodshops. After more than six decades, he still finds satisfaction in something crafted with his own hands and tools.

A northwest life

Dons local history and talents have earned him recognition as the Fall City Days grand marshal for 2012.

Don and Barbara have lived in Fall City for 25 years.

Their life together dates back to their teen years in the Bellingham area.

Barbara, maiden name Brys, grew up in Ferndale, Wash., living on a dairy farm in her teens. She didnt care for farm life. Don was the son of a college engineer; his mother was a seamstress and draper.

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The work of his hands: Craftsman Don Norman is Fall City Days marshal