Monday, May 2, 2022

Norma Wollenberg has passed

Norma Wollenberg passed away last week at 95 years of age. Through the years, she did A LOT to celebrate and recognize the history and people of Gasport and Royalton. RIP.

Here is Norma's obituary:

Norma Jean Wollenberg, 95, passed away on April 28, 2022. She was born in Lockport, NY on Oct.5, 1926, the daughter of the late Frederick A. And Eldia Arns Zimmerman. Her husband 0f 49 years, Carl W. Wollenberg was the Director of the Physical Plant Facilities at Niagara Community College, deceased in 1998.

She is the loving mother of Bryan K. Wollenberg of Middleport. Residing in the Gasport area most of her life, she was a graduate of the last class of the Middleport High School (1944).

A cosmetologist and beauty salon owner for 50 plus years, she was a graduate of the Robert’s School of Beauty Culture and the Robert Fiance Hair Design Institute of New York City.

Through the years she and her husband were active in many community events in the Royalton area.

Her library and love of History and Genealogy brought forth interest and membership in numerous Historical Societies. Among the highlights in their life of volunteerism was the chairing and co-chairing of the ceremonies held at the Town of Royalton Bicentennial and the Gasport Sesquicentennial celebration in May of 1976 with the dedication of the art sculpture “Flame” in the park by the Erie Canal at Gasport, NY.

The Town of Royalton Historical Society’s interest in procuring recognition for the Royalton native Belva A. Lockwood, who ran for President if the United States, not once but twice 1884,1888 on a U.S. Postage Stamp resulted in a four-year campaign. It was successfully completed with a First Day of Issue Ceremonies in Middleport, N.Y in June 1986.

She was a past Matron and life member of the Gasport Chapter O.E.S.#153 with 72 plus years of membership. Her membership in the Covenant United Church in Gasport covered many years.

A sister Phyllis A. George of Rice, Texas predeceased her.

She is survived her son Bryan Wollenberg (Cathi McCaa), a niece Vicky Young of Rice Texas and a nephew James George (Sheri) of Garland Texas.

There will be no calling hours. Private graveside services will be held at Acacia Park Cemetery in N. Tonawanda.

Memorials may be contributed to the charity of one’s choice.

Norma’s arrangements have been entrusted to Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St. Middleport.

To share a special memory of Norma, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.