Sonja June Norris Obituary
Sonja J. (Friesner) Norris, 82 of Findlay passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2020 at 7:50 a.m. at the Bridge Hospice Care Center following a brief illness. She was born on March 20, 1937 to the late Samuel H. and Garnet R. (Combs) Friesner in Middle Point, OH. She married Robert D. Norris on August 9, 1959 and he preceded her in death on April 14, 1985.
She is survived by her only child and joy of her life, Tonya Janene (Mark) Norris Olson, and one grandson, Mark Olson III. A sister, Dr. Joyce Swisher, preceded her in death. Over the later part of her life, she provided a home for her father in Findlay for almost nine years, and they traveled together throughout Europe. She had also been a member of the First Presbyterian Church for over 75 years.
Mrs. Norris was well-known to many throughout the Hancock County area. After graduation from Findlay High School in 1955 and the University of Findlay in 1959, she was the first of her high school class to teach in both the old and new high schools. She continued there as an English teacher for twelve years, until the birth of her daughter.
After the death of her husband, Robert in 1985, she advanced with her Master's studies at Bowling Green State University and continued to substitute teach for the next ten years in Findlay, Arcadia and McComb School districts. Always attempting to instill a desire to learn more about English, she approached teaching with a sense of humor and practical usefulness in each student's life.
Teaching and her relationships with the students became a central focus of her life, and she had maintained close relationships with many former students over the years. The funeral service will begin at 12:00 noon on Thursday, February 6, 2020 at KIRKPATRICK-BEHNKE FUNERAL HOME with the Rev. Jessie Commeret officiating.
Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 2330 South Main Street, Findlay, Ohio 45840.
