MILFORD – Norma E. Melanson, 78, died peacefully Friday, Nov. 2, 2007, surrounded by her loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was born Sept. 6, 1929, in Brookton, the daughter of Mavis Nason. Norma was a source of strength and guidance for her entire family. Her greatest enjoyment came from spending time with her children and grandchildren, all of which had very special relationships with her. She was extremely unselfish with her time and her love for her family. She was a very talented and hardworking woman, who never backed down from a challenge or difficult task. She was an outstanding cook, quilter, gardener, fisherman and person. Norma spent her working years as a hand sewer in local shoe factories. After her retirement, she spent summers fishing and relaxing at East Grand Lake with her husband. While at home, she enjoyed time spent with her swimming and quilting friends at the YMCA. Norma is survived by her four children, Brenda and her husband, Ron Cote, of Bradley, Allan and his wife, Mary Melanson, of LaGrange, Muriel and her husband, John Torrey, of Milford and Kim and her husband, Kevin Fredette, of Nashua, N.H. Norma cherished her time with her 11 grandchildren, Julie, Wendy, Jason, Aimee, Kelly, Megan, Heidi, Jack, Michael, Lauren and Lindsey; and her 19 great-grandchildren. Norma is also survived by her sister, Genevieve Gilpatrick of Weston; her sister-in-law, Bert Melanson of Bradley; and a special aunt, Edith Jones of Brookton, who was her companion during the last several months. Norma was predeceased by her mother; her husband, Jack; her grandson, Jack; and her brother, John Gilman. Friends may call 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6, at Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main St., Old Town, where memorial services will be conducted 11 a.m. Interment will be after at Milford Cemetery. After the services, friends are invited to a luncheon at the Church of Universal Fellowship, 82 Main St., Orono. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send memorial contributions to Brookton Pentecostal Church, Brookton, ME 04413.
NORMA E. MELANSON
