Norma Clark

Norma Clark was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother and valued friend of her community. She was truly the nicest of persons, whose kindness was demonstrated in the day to day care of her family and the exceptional attention she gave hundreds of people, some of whom she never met.

Norma was born in Akron, Ohio on October 3, 1927, the year Charles Lindbergh made his solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 33.5 hours. The nation’s can-do spirit was also reflected in Henry Ford’s mass production of the automobile and the Suffrage Movement that won women the right to vote. Yet the economic depression that closed out the decade also strengthened the character and determination of its citizens.

Norma was the oldest child of John and Lily (Shephard) Loughney and big sister to Alverta, Betty, John, Sherry and Jimmy. Having emigrated from Ireland, her father wanted to build a good life for his children, and Norma grew up just as determined. She graduated from high school in Akron and later from seamstress and cosmetology school. As a young woman, she readily put her talents to use as a dedicated wife and mother.

Norma met Charles Clark after the conclusion of World War II, where he had served in the U.S. Navy. First introduced by his brother Harold, Charles and Norma soon fell in love and were married by a Justice of the Peace on September 16, 1947 in Akron, Ohio. They settled in Hamilton, Ohio and were blessed with six children: Richard, Jean, Shirley, Charlene, Pamela and Janice. They lived there for 18 years before moving to Three Rivers, Michigan.

Norma was a superb mother in every way. She provided a loving and ordered home, filled with nurturing habits and the right amount of discipline. She taught her children to respect their elders—addressing them as “Mr. and Mrs.”—and to always be kind to others. By way of example, she volunteered many hours with the VFW Auxiliary and didn’t hesitate to drive a widow to an appointment or to visit the elderly. Around the house, Norma’s excellence as a cook and baker was reflected in such family favorites as upside down pineapple cake and cinnamon rolls that were a perfect complement to her homemade noodles and beef. Typical of those who grew up during the Depression, Norma was very frugal and wise. She tended a large garden and canned jars and jars of produce. A thrifty way of entertaining a family of eight was to go camping in the summer, and many wonderful memories were made on those special trips.

With all the care and attention Norma gave her family, she still showed concern for others. Along with the many items of clothing she made for her daughters, Norma spent countless hours sewing blankets for veterans. She also made blankets for hospital neonatal units and diapers for children in the Dominican Republic. Such selfless giving will be remembered by all who knew and loved Norma.

Norma Rowena (Loughney) Clark, age 82 of Three Rivers, Michigan passed away Friday, July 23, 2010 at home with her family at her bed side. She is survived by her husband Charles; her children: Richard L. Clark of Michigan, Norma Jean (Dale) Stocks of Mansfield Ohio, Shirley A. (Charles) Pierce of Pilot Point Texas, Charlene H (Lance) Parish of Kalamazoo, Pamela F. (Richard) Johnson of Spencer Indiana and was preceded in death by Janice D Clark in 2005. Other members of her family include 15 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Visitation will be from 9-11 AM on Friday, July 30th, 2010 at the Light and Life Wesleyan Church, 15765 Hoffman Street, Three Rivers and Funeral Services will be at 11 AM with Pastor Sam Maddox officiating. Burial will be in the Mint Cemetery.

Please visit Norma’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you may archive a memory or photo, sign her memory book online, or make a memorial donation to Hospice Care of Southwest MI. Arrangements by Life Story Funeral Homes, Vicksburg, 409 S. Main, (269-649-1697).