04/14/2026
We want to Forward the following message from Norkay's Family. Please click on the link OR read the details about the Memorial Service this Thursday.
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It is with deep sorrow and profound respect we announce the passing of a cherished member of the Himalayan community, who left this world at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive stomach cancer.
He passed away at home in Seattle on April 9th, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind his wife, Dr. Mari Sullivan, DNP, and sons Dr. James R Sherpa, MD and William T Sherpa.
Born and raised in the shadow of the great Himalayan mountains, he embodied the enduring spirit, resilience, and humility of the Sherpa people. From an early age, as the oldest of 17 siblings, he learned the values of hard work, compassion, and quiet strength—qualities that would define his life and touch all who knew him. He designed many of the trekking routes still used today and trekked through every District in Nepal.
He met his wife Mari in 1988 and married her in 1989. They spent the next few years traveling, camping and mountaineering before settling down and raising children. James Rhinji is now a physician and William Tendi a civil engineer. He told everyone how proud he was of his sons.
He studied culinary arts at North Seattle College and worked in a number of top restaurants in Seattle before joining the US Department of State Foreign Service. There he spent 20 years as a Diplomat working in Diplomatic Security. Upon retirement from the Foreign Service he became a Transit Operator for Kitsap County. in 2024 he proudly won Driver of the Month and was two votes away from winning Driver of the year.
For decades, even while pursuing other careers, he dedicated himself to guiding and supporting climbers from around the world, helping others safely experience the majesty of the Himalayas. His deep knowledge of the mountains, paired with his calm presence and unwavering reliability, earned him the respect of fellow Sherpas and international adventurers alike. To many, he was more than a guide—he was a mentor, protector, and friend.
He was a devoted family man. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, and sons who were the center of his world. His kindness, gentle humor, and steady guidance will live on in their hearts and in the values he instilled in them.
Though his journey was marked by physical hardship in his last year of life, he faced his illness with the same quiet courage that defined his life. He remained grateful, dignified, and deeply connected to his family and community until the very end.
His passing leaves a profound void, but his legacy endures—in the lives he touched, the paths he helped others walk, and the mountains that will forever hold his spirit. His beautiful smile will continue to light up the days of those who knew him.
Local Services will be held at:
10:00 am Thursday April 16th, 2026
Acacia Memorial Park and Funeral Home
14951 Bothell Way NE
Seattle, WA
Norkay asked specifically that only living flowers and plants be presented if desired. No cut flowers.
A traditional ceremony will be held in his home village of Loding to honor his left and guide his spirit onward.
May he rest in peace among the peaks he cherished.
Om mani padme hung
Celebrate the life of Norkay Sherpa, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Acacia Memorial Park & Funeral Home.
