NORMA LESLIE CARO BALMER

April 30, 1926 - March 9, 2005

* SUGGESTIONS *
(1) Open to a FULL-SCREEN view.  (2) While viewing this Tribute, play a special song of your choice on your own CD player or sound system,
something with unique significance for you and Norma.  This will personalize and enhance your experience of the Tribute.  Or play
Norma's request -- "A Time to Say Goodbye" by Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman, legally downloadable to your PC here.

                             

Those who knew Norma experienced her unique charm, elegance, culture, style, and wit.  Born in London,
England on April 30th, 1926, she moved to Manhattan at age 20 to start a new life after World War II. 
She met and married John B. Balmer on June 4, 1952 and they remained together until his death in 1985.  Norma
resided in Hillsborough from 1970 until her passing.  Survived by her granddaughters Julia and Natalie,
daughter Diane, son John, his wife Jenny, their children Catherine and Duff, son Tony, brothers Peter and Brian,
sister-in-law Jane, nieces Nicki and Jackie, cousin Bruce and his wife Diane.

We are deeply saddened by her death and pray that she has found peace at long last.


         


                                          


   


Wishing

If I could wish anything for you, it would be all of this and more...

That the window drapes are billowing open in a warm breeze
and brilliant sun beams are flooding into your room
so that crystal pieces are backlit like stained glass
and wild patterns dance freely on the walls.

That your back is now straight and strong,
and you are able to walk with quiet self-assurance.
There is no need to make yourself small anymore, mommy.
Take up as much space as you want and celebrate Norma.

That you are seizing joyous pleasure in the simplest of things...
the blooming magnolia blossoms just beyond your window;
the books that you used to so avidly read;
feeling the cool pool water flowing over your body;
food, wonderful food...you and Dad taught me
a lifelong love of dining over many a languidly sensual meal;
your cooking art, where you infused so much of your love;
window-shopping and going for decadent milkshakes afterwards;
bounding like Auntie Mame up the escalator in Neiman Marcus
to exuberantly embrace your delighted granddaughter.

This same granddaughter now wears the simplest of her Mima's rings,
fitting perfectly on her finger as a devotional and daily reminder of you.
So you see...the next generation will spirit you lovingly forward here,
while you take good care of yourself there.



Family & Friends,
We welcome any written sentiments you'd like to share.
Simply use the email form below.  Thank you.