Chandlers' Funeral Service Ltd.

91 Union Street, P.O. Box 699
Liverpool, NS B0T 1K0
Phone: (902) 354-4242
Email: info@chandlersfuneral.com

Strum; Norma Lynn

71 Condolences

Normainframe

Strum- Norma Lynn It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Norma Lynn Strum (née Johnson) on January 28th, 2016 following a short battle with liver disease.
Norma was born in Halifax on November 14th, 1965 to parents Linda Leslie (Curtis Maillett) of Brooklyn and Alan (Adele) Johnson of Petite Riviere.
With the exception of a few years in Halifax and in Ontario, Norma grew up in East Port Medway on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, but always considered Liverpool to be her home. After graduating from Liverpool Regional High School in 1983, Norma continued her education at Mount Allison University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science in 1986 at only twenty years of age. Norma married the father of her children, Bernie Rechnitzer, in 1989. Together they moved to the West Island of Montreal, where they had their four children. In 2005, Norma, Bernie, and the kids moved back to Nova Scotia, settling in Bridgewater. In 2010 Norma married her high school friend Stephen Strum, who became “Papa” to the children, and soulmate to Norma.
Those who knew Norma understood that she was passionate about her youth care work, which started at Alternative Programs for Youth and Families in Bridgewater, and eventually brought her to the Nexus program in Kentville. Norma devoted herself to her family first and foremost. She loved music and often produced emotional reactions in others with her beautiful singing voice. Among her many talents was an amazing ability to “chef”, to which her family, friends, and coworkers can all attest. Norma’s endless capacity to love led her to surround herself with pets, many of them rescues. Norma will be remembered for her unique zest for life, infectious laugh, quick wit, and her compassion for others.
Norma is survived by husband Stephen, children Diana, Arielle, Matthew, and Nathan, brother Glenn (Pam Cogan), nephews Daniel, Alex and Zachary as well as 9 beloved dogs and cats.
Norma is predeceased by her first husband Bernie.
Visitation will be held February 11, 2016 from 12:30 until 2:00 p.m. followed by a memorial celebration of Norma’s life in Chandlers’ Funeral Chapel, Liverpool, Nova Scotia. Reception to follow. Family flowers only, donations can be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Online condolences may be made to www.chandlersfuneral.com.

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Condolence Messages

  2. Donna Smith

    Such a beautiful picture of a beautiful woman. So sad for the rest of us who have to go on without her. She left an amazing legacy for us all to aspire to. The love that Norma had for you Stephen, the kids, the animals, and everyone else who was a part of her short but jam-packed life, the love that was our Norma, lives on with us.

  3. Robert & Sally Fader

    Stephen & family:

    Robert and I are so very sorry to hear of Norma’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.

  7. Shirley Melanson

    I am truly sorry for your loss.Sounds like you found a true soulmate and became a wonderful “Papa”It will certainly be a hardship to overcome,but have faith and things will eventually work out.

  9. DonnaLeigh West

    Stephen and kids….may your memories of Norma – her laughter, her love for family, love of life carry you through the darkness of the coming days…please know you are all thought of with much love and compassion. I was blessed to be able to call her friend.

  10. Sandra Carson-Price

    Stephen and family,
    I was so sorry to hear of Norma’s passing and send you all my deepest condolences.

  11. Brian, Dianne Godfrey

    So sorry for your loss, our thoughts are with you and the family, Brian and Dianne Godfrey

  12. Kathy Edwards

    “All men have stars, but they are not the same things for different people. For some, who are travelers, the stars are guides. For others they are no more than little lights in the sky. For others, who are scholars, they are problems… But all these stars are silent. You-You alone will have stars as no one else has them… In one of the stars I shall be living. In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the stars will be laughing when you look at the sky at night..You, only you, will have stars that can laugh! And when your sorrow is comforted (time soothes all sorrows) you will be content that you have known me… You will always be my friend. You will want to laugh with me. And you will sometimes open your window, so, for that pleasure… It will be as if, in place of the stars, I had given you a great number of little bells that knew how to laugh”
    ― Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

    Dear Stephen, Arielle, Diana, Matthew & Nathan,

    It is indeed still to fresh perhaps to hear the laughter in the stars but if you listen carefully, you will hear her. Her laugh was infectious, her love indefatigable. She could not be held in our mortal world but she lives forever in our hearts, in those wonderful memories and all the great accomplishments. She was, in the end, well loved.

    And think how joyous the Rainbow Bridge will be with her there for all her furry companions.

    Love & hugs, Kathy

  13. Viv Croft (Whynot)

    Another one of our Class of 83 gone. Sending my condolences to Norma’s family. So sorry for your loss.

  14. Nancy Anthony

    I knew Norma as a young girl, taking piano lessons and thought the world of her. My deepest sympathy to her family

  15. Taverner family

    Please accept our condolences on the loss of your beloved Norma. Sending love and light to all.

  16. Janet and George Fletcher

    It was with a heavy heart that we heard about the passing of Norma. You had found your true soulmate and you have great memories to hold on to. Our thoughts and our prayers are with you.

  17. Stacey Thomas

    Norma was a wonderful woman filled with love and life. She lived everyday to the fullest.
    I was so lucky to have called her a friend but to me she was more like family.
    You could see the love in her eyes when she talked about Stephen and the kids.
    She was taken from us way to soon but will live in our heart forever.
    There are no words to say how saddened I am by this loss.
    I will cherish our time together forever
    Xoxo

  18. Wendy Todd Mager

    I was fortunate enough to meet Norma in Montreal when Kimberly and Diana went to kindergarden together. I always admired her joy of life. When I was about to move to The maritimes Norma invited us to the wedding that way we could look around and get a feel for Nova Scotia! Unfortunately we were unable to attend. We ended up moving to Truro. Norma and I kept trying to coordinate our schedules to get together, unfortunately it never came to be…. I am deeply saddened about the news of Norma’s passing as we all know she was an amazing mother and friend. I am truly sorry for your loss Stephen, Diana, Arielle, Matthew and Nathan! Norma always had wonderful things to tell me about each of you! She was a very special lady and touched many people! She will be remembered forever!

  19. Susan MacNutt

    I’m truly sorry to hear of Norma’s passing. My sincerest condolences to all of those who knew and loved her.

  20. Heidi Penney (Lawtons)

    I am so sorry for your loss as Norma was always very beautiful and bright in her presence. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  21. Verna Wagner

    Stephen, I am thinking of you during your loss and hoping that your wonderful, loving memories of your wife help ease your pain and help guide you through your next journey in life. Wishing you and your family all the best at this difficult time.

  22. Kevin & Cathie Wentzell

    Linda and family,
    Words cannot express the deep loss you are experiencing. Take comfort in your memories. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

  23. Paulette, Harvey and families

    Stephen and family, we are heart broken at your loss. Every time we look out the window it hits us that she is gone.
    Norma was so full of life and smiles it doesn’t seem possible that she could get sick and pass so quickly. It certainly won’t be the same without her. At least she knows her children will be with someone that cares. Take care and love to you all.

  24. Judi Maillett

    ” Perhaps they are not the stars,but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.
    A look at the stars ; a touch of a hand………you are wished whatever comforts you. You are wished what brings peace to your heart. ” (inspired by Eskimo legend )
    Norma’s light will never dim,it will shine on forever in our hearts & our memories.I will look for her in the stars at night.In my thoughts always with hugs & love to the family.

  25. Vicki & Scott Conrad

    Stephen and Family,

    We are so sorry to hear of Norma’s passing. Take care of yourselves during this most difficult and sad time in your lives. Take comfort in each other and your most cherished memories of Norma and your life together. Our sincere sympathy and prayers go out to you. Vicki and Scott Conrad

  26. Wanda Seldon (née Colp)

    Unfortunately we never know how long our journey will last here on earth, but knowing Norma gives me great satisfaction to know that she always gave her all and loved with her whole heart. Those whom she loved and was close to will feel the most pain only because they were the most loved … May the thought that others know and share your pain help you all get through this difficult time … Hugs

  27. Pete Samuels

    Norma has been and has always been my friend.. As I write this, many memories come flooding by.. My condolences to Normas family and her friends.. She will be greatly missed…

  28. Ann and Allan Smith

    Linda, Stephen and Glen,
    We remember many happy times with Norma in her younger years of elementary school and high school. She was always a thoughtful sweet heart. Our thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time.
    Ann and Allan

  29. Tammy weagle

    I cant believe that that beautiful lady that i doctored just a week ago would have been the last time i would again norma has such beauti inside and out you can tell her love for her children and steven was so deep she will be missed terribly rip beautiful angel

  31. Clara Stehr

    Dear David, Arielle, Nathan,Matthew and Stephen. Very sorry for your loss. Norma and I first meet at Briarwood pool in Pierrefonds and quickly became friends. Norma was an awesome woman and was taken way to soon. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time of sorrow. May Norma Rest in Peace. Clara Stehr Pierrefonds Quebec

  32. BRENDA LAWRENCE /JIM HUBLEY

    Linda , Curtis and family .
    Jim and I were shocked to read that Norma passed away .
    Our sincere condolences go out to you all . Hold on to all of
    your memories, this will help to get through days ahead . Cherish
    your grandchildren , they will need their nanny’s help. God bless .
    Sincerely Brenda and Jim .

  33. Lisa Murphy (Geno Sajko)

    Though one of the brightest stars has gone out of our mortal lives, she shines on in the hearts and memories of all of us who loved Norma. Stephen and family, please accept our sympathies on the loss of Norma. Our reconnection a few years ago through your wedding, and our later ‘group birthday’ at Summerville meant the world to me. I regret profoundly that I will be unable to attend this celebration of Norma’s life, but I promise we will celebrate her home another day. With love and tears and many virtual hugs…

  34. Linda Trainor

    Linda, Curtis, Stephen,
    My prayers & thoughts are with you all at this time of sorrow. May you find Peace with God at this time. GOD Bless!

  35. Debbie Godfrey

    Stephen, and children- I am so sorry- I know how happy u were- and you both, and the children, deserved to be so content! I pray your wonderful memories will sustain you, and help you through the pain of such a great loss..my thoughts are with you…

  36. Christine Taillon

    Stephen and Glenn
    I hope that the fond memories of Norma help you through this time. Take care and know you are not alone.
    Christine

  37. Janette Tielsch

    Stephen and family.
    I’m so saddened by the news of your wife’s passing. My family is thinking of you and your children. You are in our prayers during this difficult time of sorrow.

  38. Todd J Hannam

    Linda, Glenn, and All family
    Such a Sad Loss growing up 2 doors down from Norma she was a Kind Hearted Soul who will be deeply missed
    Sincerely
    Todd J Hannam

  40. Bonnie Morgan-Hamm

    I was so surprised to hear of Norma’s passing. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.

  41. Margo Hanley

    Linda, Curtis and family. I am so sorry to hear of your incredible loss. The loss of a child is like none other, so I have been told and I can’t imagine the pain your family is going through at this time. Please know your friends and family are sending you their sincere sympathy. Stay strong! God Bless.

  42. Beth Hupman

    Stephen and family
    So sorry to hear about Norma.
    Cherish the memories you’ve made with her…
    She was a great person
    with our sympathy,
    Beth & Mike Hupman

  43. Crystal Wentzell (Smith)

    My deepest sympathies to the family. I have such fond memories of Norma and although we lost touch over the years, I have often thought of her and all of the fun we had growing up together. When I heard that she was not going to be long for this world, I rushed to the hospital to see her only to discover that I had missed her. I just wanted to let her know that she left an impact on my life with her smile and her laugh. I will never forget her and she will forever live in my fond memories of my years in Port Medway. God bless her and all of you in this time of sorrow.

  45. The Sinclair's

    Stephen, Nathan & family – we are thinking of you and send our condolences. Craig, Gail & Erin Sinclair

  46. Norma & Leon Robertson

    Stephen, We are so sorry for your loss. Please pass on our condolences to your family .
    You will always have good memories. She is resting in peace and no pain.

    Leon & Norma

  47. Valerie Rhyno

    I did not know this wonderful young lady but I do know both her parents. Your heart must be breaking. I would like to offer my deepest condolence to all who love and miss her.

  48. Tracy Thistle Samuels

    Stephen and Family,

    I’m so very sorry to hear of Norma’s passing. I will always remember her beautiful smile and her infectious laughter. She was truly a beautiful person and will be greatly missed by all. Cherish your memories..my deepest condolences to all the family. Sending much love and prayers.

    Tracy Thistle Samuels

  49. Mike & Darlene Rochester and Family

    To the Strum Family,

    So very sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved wife and mother Norma. Although I worked with her for a relatively short time, her dedication and commitment to her family was well known. Norma’s professionalism along with her care for others will be remembered.

  50. Elaine Stocker/Dubeau

    My sympathies to all of you.I met Norma when our children were in Beechwood elementary together. Our children were good friends and I will always remember her welcoming smile, and her caring personality. So sad to hear she had passed away. May she watch over you from above.and may all the wonderful menories you have keep you strong in this difficult time.

  51. Valerie Levy

    Stephen and family: I am so shocked to learn of Norma’s death. I only new Norma through my work at Crescent Jewellers in Bridgewater. She had such a warmth about her and her zest for life was evident. I am so very sorry for your loss. May wonderful memories fill your hearts each and every day and give you comfort.

  52. Jill Smith & Family

    Please accept our sincere condolences. Lots of nice memories of Norma from fencing days, and I was very saddened to hear of her passing.

  53. Patti and John Blimke

    Linda, Curtis, Glenn and the rest of Norma’s family…. We are so very sorry for your loss. Hold your memories close to your heart.

  54. Dawn & Gary Ivany

    Dear Stephen and family,

    Our deepest sympathies to you all for the loss of a wonderful wife and mother, Norma, she will be missed.

  55. Susan Dean

    Dear Linda, Glen and Family: So very sorry to hear about Norma. My heart grieves for your loss. Susan Dean

  57. Jane Payzant

    Linda and family
    We are both so very sorry Please except our sincerest sympathy
    Jane and Roy

  58. Boomie and Brenda

    Dear Stephen. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family .Norma will be greatly missed.

  59. Nancy Spinks

    Linda and family, so very sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and all of Norma’s family as you grieve.
    Sincerely,
    Nancy Spinks

  60. David Elaine Holland

    Sincere Christian sympathy to all the family. May god be your strength & peace in the days ahead.
    David Elaine and Joel Holland

  61. Wanda (Wentzell) Baron

    Sending heartfelt condolences to Normas loved ones, be they human or animal. A vivacious soul who had touched so many lives leaves behind a legacy of love and beautiful memories. Lean on each other in the dark days ahead, draw comfort from your memories, and live your lives to the fullest until you meet again. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

  62. Sandra Turpin

    Dear Linda and Family:

    Sending you my most sincere sympathy on your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts at this most difficult time. God Bless.

  63. Bonnie Daley

    Watch over us my dear friend and may you rest easy knowing how much you will be missed and thought of by so many, all with their own special memory. Your love and strength will live on in your beautiful Family.Your infectious smile will stay in my soul forever.My deepest sympathy to you Stephen and the children and Norma’s fur baby’s.All of you made your home her favorite place to be.

  64. Sophia

    Dear Norma’s Family & to all who knew and loved her,

    My sincerest condolences for your loss. I’m sending you all my love and support.

    I met Norma when I first started working for the Nova Scotia Sea School. Her vibrant personality was contagious and her kindness and compassion unyielding. I witnessed her go to bat time and time again for her youth. She was unrelenting in her determination to help youth to access our life changing programs and she was an absolute delight to work with. One of my favourite memories with Norma is when a youth returned from trip. She immediately spoke to the shift in his energy and outlook. We hugged, cried, and celebrated with joy. She cared so deeply.

    Norma and I didn’t know each other “well” but she immediately felt like a bosom buddy. I imagine many people feel that way about Norma. I’m forever grateful for the short time I got to spend with her. May Norma’s inner light continue to shine through all of us.

    Rest In Peace Norma. Until we meet again.

  65. les cosby

    normas family so sorry for your loss as I know she was a very special person who will be missed dearly rip

  67. Jennifer McNeil ( Rudolph )

    Stephen and family,
    So sorry to hear of Norma’s passing. My thoughts are with you at this sad time.

  68. LIsa Parnell

    Dear Stephen and Family,

    So sorry for your Loss of Norma. Her Bright Light shines around you!

    Thinking of you!
    Lisa and Donnie Parnell

  69. Tim McDonald

    Dear Stephen, Linda and all of Norma’s family
    It is with shock and sadness that I send condolences to all of you. I went to Liverpool Regional High with Norma and we graduated together. We were all reunited when she attended our 20th reunion in 2003 and that was filled with many fond memories. Norma was so outgoing and as many people have said – she was larger than life. I remember in grade 12 when we were decorating our classroom for Christmas, Norma was one of the organizers and she even went as far as cooking a turkey to bring in and sure enough our class won the Christmas decorating contest. We often chuckled about that years later. She was a great lady and I am sad that she has left us far too soon. I know she has left all of you with wonderful memories. Treasure them and that will keep her close!!

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