Norman Marshall (1932-1982) led an active life as a naval aviator. After serving 25 years in the Navy, he retired with more than 5,000 hours of flying time. Once again a civilian, he began to look for a hobby that was relaxing, useful, and fun. Remembering the nostalgic smell of freshly cut wood, he decided that woodworking would be a good choice. Norm had an active imagination and love of fun so he started designing toys in 1974. He had found the perfect hobby and continued to design and build wooden toys until his death in 1982.