MANSFIELD: Norma Sleek collected bells. From fine glass tinker-bells, to decorative ceramic souvenirs to hearty metal chimes, none in her collection rang so true – so sweet – so welcoming as the bells of heaven she heard Saturday morning August 27, 2016 as she passed peacefully into the Lord’s care from Brookdale of Mansfield. She was 96.
Born Norma Geraldine Underwood May 15, 1920 in Mansfield to Frank and Rhea (Sackman) Underwood, she was graduated from Mansfield Senior High School in 1938.
On February 15, 1941 she married Robert A. Sleek, and they were blessed with three daughters. When Norma’s primary work raising the girls was complete, she went to work at Essex Wire in Lexington, serving 23 years, retiring in 1986 as an inspector.
Norma was an active member of Steam Corners United Methodist Church, Ruth Chapter #13 Order of Eastern Star, and enjoyed gardening and sewing.
Remembered for her positive disposition, Norma was a genuine and loving Christian woman who always thought of others first, often with an encouraging word.
Surviving are her three daughters Karen Preuit of Canal Fulton, Linda Hyatt of Euless, TX and Arlyn “Lynn” & Tom Rush of Mansfield. She was also grandma to five children who loved her only as a grandmother could be loved: Lori & George Dorer of Mason, Lisa & Dave Robinson of Canal Fulton, Gerri Higgins of Fort Worth, TX, Greg & Kristen Rush of Strongsville, and Christina (Rush) & Christopher Schertzer of Caledonia; and they gifted her with nine great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years Robert A. Sleek on August 10, 2011. Also deceased is a sister Marge Palm.
The Sleek family will receive friends Wednesday August 31, 2016 from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home, where her funeral service will immediately follow at 2 p.m. Pastor Karen Wagenhals will officiate. Burial will follow in Shauck Cemetery.
Contributions in her memory to Steam Corners United Methodist Church may be made at the funeral home.
Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the Sleek family. Share with them a message of Norma’s impact on your life – or watch her tribute video – online at: http://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com/obituary/norma-g-sleek/
