Norman Marshall Villeneuve, iconic drummer of the Canadian jazz scene known for his musicality, mentorship and spirited passion, has died. He was 87 years old. 

His wife, Louise Artibello Villeneuve, was with him at Montreal's Lachine Hospital when he died Wednesday morning after suffering a brain aneurysm, she said.

Louise, who lives in a seniors' residence, says the last time she saw him before that was a week ago.

"He was very, very happy living in a building with his friend [and fellow drummer…