Norma Orahood

Norma J. Orahood, formerly of Hammond, passed away on May 5, 2020, at Community Hospital Munster, IN, of complications related to Covid 19.   Born in 1930, in Chicago, IL, to Beatrice (nee Strouss) and Norman Edwards.  She grew up in Chicago area, spending vacations in Earlville, IL 

Norma was handy, crafty, and creative, turning scraps and trash into treasures, throughout her life.  She was a talented homemaker and seamstress, designing for her family and such customers as brides. 

She served as wardrobe mother for Job’s Daughters Bethel 69, leader for Girl Scout and Brownie troops, and board member of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Campground in Portage, IN.   With pride and gusto, she served as caregiver and housekeeper for many families.  She was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose.  Norma served often as an election judge while she lived in Hammond from 1955 – 2015.  Later she lived in Merrillville and most recently at Dyer Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

She is survived by her four children--Judith O. Royal (Carl), Debra S. Barker (James), Susan E. Gregar (Peter), and Amy R. Orahood, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and her sister Linda Raufer (Thomas).

Preceded in death by James R. Orahood, her husband of 57 years, son Gary A. Orahood (Jean Nitta), her parents, and brother Leighton J. Edwards (Helen). 

A Committal service will be held at the cemetery in Earlville, IL, for family.   You’re invited to post a Tribute for Norma at Hillsidefhcares.com.  In lieu of flowers, family suggests donations to Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, 6490 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410, or visit foodbanknwi.org. 

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper-Kevin Nordyke by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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