Norma Jean (Stark) Connors, 76, departed her earthly life on Sunday, September 29, 2019, in Overland Park, KS. She was surrounded by family and the loving hands of hospice when she joined her heavenly Father and loved ones who have gone before her.
Norma was born in Monroe, WI, on December 27, 1942, to Clifford and Ruth (Hermanson) Stark. She graduated in 1960 from Orangeville High School in Orangeville, IL, and lived in Freeport, IL, Baltimore, MD, Madison, WI, and Rockton, IL, before spending her retirement years in the Kansas City area.
Norma’s professional career was spent with Newell, where she retired in 2001 as Vice President of Human Resources, International Division.
She enjoyed reading, writing, needlepoint, and keeping up with her grandchildren’s activities. She was active in several organizations, including P.E.O. (Chapter GM), where she held several officers’ roles, Embroiderers’ Guild of America, and her monthly book club. Norma had many dear friends within each of these groups, giving her a rich and fulfilling retirement.
To mourn her passing, Norma leaves behind children Terri (Tom) DeDecker of Kansas City, MO, and Sandra (Jay Knight) Detert of Rockford, IL; grandchildren Margaret DeDecker of Kansas City, MO, Laura DeDecker of Columbia, MO, Michael Estes of Machesney Park, IL, Sarah DeDecker of Kansas City, MO, and Aaron Detert of Iowa City, IA; brother Kenneth Stark of Freeport, IL,; and nephew Danny (Jeanna) Stark and niece Catherine Cornelius, along with several great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Memorial contributions may be made to Kadlec Ranch (Cat and Kitten) Rescue www.kadlecranchrescue.com/donate or Lead to Read KC at www.leadtoreadkc.org/donate.
Services for Norma will be held privately for her immediate family at a later date.
Friend ,Davis Junction ,Illinois
Very sorry for your loss. Prayers to all. She was a great lady. Always enjoyed visiting with her.
Nephew ,Freeport ,Illinois
There wasn't a moment when a conversation wasn't meaningful. Many times, online, it was short but sweet. Nothing would get past Norma, which explains the success she has had as an executive and as a mother and grandmother. She wanted me to help her write a book, it never happened but I believed if it did, it would have been a wild ride. Peace Norma, Twitter will never be the same.
Daughter ,Rockford ,Illinois
Dear Mom ~ With the hundreds of millions of thoughts that run through our brains during our lifetime ~ writing your last letter to your Mother sure seems to have missed the list. Where do I start? What do I say? Writers block is not the problem ..... Denial is. I always knew how to get in touch with you no matter what the reason behind the purpose for doing so. You shared your knowledge, your experiences, your sensible outlook when mine wasn't quite as rational. You always remained my staunchest cheerleader, even when the rest of the world seemed to be on the other team. Thank you for not only pushing me to be a better person, but also for catching me when I stumbled. There was always a solid foundation, a safe zone, in your presence and I already miss you terribly! Rest In Peace and Fly Pain Free. ❤
Friends ,Rockford ,Illinois
Sandy - Our thoughts and prayers. So sorry for your loss. Rick & Ellen
