Norma Jean Chalker, 83, passed away Mon, Sep 21, 2009 at her home in Indian River. Norma was born Nov 15, 1925. She was the daughter of Carl and Bertha (Burkholder) Wilson. She grew up in the Manton area and graduated from Lake City Public Schools in 1942. She received her nurses training in Traverse City and received a degree in registered nursing from Wayne State University in Detroit.
On Nov 2, 1947 Norma married Lewis R. Chalker, Sr. in Lake City. Lew graduated from the University of Chicago Theology Seminary and in 1959 the Chalker family moved to Indian River.
Norma was employed as a registered nurse at the former Little Traverse Hospital in Petoskey and later at the State Hospital in Gaylord. She was also a teacher for health careers and a school nurse at Petoskey public schools until she retired in 1986. Mr. Chalker preceded her in death in 1970.
Norma Jean enjoyed reading, knitting, dancing, and picking berries as well as spending time with her family and friends.
She is survived by her children, Janice (Willie) Grider of Zion, IL, Kathy McGovern if Indian River, Lewis (Mary Beth) Chalker of Buckley, Steven (Margarete) Chalker of Langsburg, MI; eleven grandchildren; nine great grandchildren, and a sister, Martha (Peter) Skraba of Lake City, MI. Besides her parents and husband, Norma was preceded in death by her brothers, Don and Buddy Wilson.
Memorial contributions are suggested to youth ministries at the Indian River United Methodist Church.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Lintz Funeral Home in Indian River cared for the family.