Norman Ralph Gilliland, age 91, of Summit Township, passed away at his home on Monday, December 7, 2009. Born on November 5, 1918 in Sharon, PA, he was the son of the late Ralph and Iva Fonner Gilliland.
Norman married Ethel L. Rabell over 68 years ago on March 23, 1941. He was a loving husband and a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Norman never spoke an unkind word about anyone and will be remembered as a man of integrity who loved his family very much.
Also a man of faith, Norman was an active member of Summit United Methodist Church for 59 years. He was committed to the life of the church, serving on various committees and boards and teaching Sunday School.
Norman retired from Lord Corporation of Erie after 35 years of employment.
In addition to his wife, Ethel L. Rabell Gilliland, family members surviving include three daughters, Carol (George) Ackerman of Girard, Betty Lou (Dave) Klindienst of State College, PA, and Mary Ann Tronetti of Erie; his grandchildren: Jon, Kevin (Keri), Scott, and PFC Timothy (Chelsea) Ackerman, and David and Jeffrey (Kristi) Klindienst; his step-grandchildren: Francesca, Alexandra, and Sgt. Patrick Tronetti; and, his great-grandchildren: Ashley, Kira, and Kaylin Ackerman; Jack Klindienst; and another Ackerman great-grandchild due in July.
Friends may call at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford on Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9pm. The funeral service will take place at Summit United Methodist Church on Thursday at 10:00am officiated by Rev. Lee Pomeroy. Burial will follow at Waterford Cemetery.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be given, in lieu of flowers, to Summit United Methodist Church, 1510 West Townhall Road, Erie, PA 16509.
To the family of Norman Gilliland, we send our deepest sympathy. You and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers, especially since I read the obituary on the internet early Friday morning. This was the first chance that I had been online in about two weeks. I have been busy with moving, entertaining company and a funeral of a dear friend of my family in Mill Village myself. Life has a way of being so busy sometimes that we don’t do the things we want to do, like visiting or giving a person a call. Know that you all have been in my thoughts and prayers during the year. I spoke to Betty Lou in January and we caught up on our families at that time. I had intended on stopping for a visit, but my last time home was rushed with a funeral, seeing my Dad and getting ready to make another trip to North Carolina and then it was Thanksgiving. Time hasn’t been on my side and hopefully it will slow down, so I can do the important things that I would like to do. Mrs. Gilliland, I can remember our talk a few years back and I was telling Betty Lou that you amazed me. To have that kind of energy is remarkable! To see that you and Norman were married for over 68 years is a story in itself. You were both faithful to the Lord and He gave you both many years together. What an inspiration you both have been for others to see! I will close for now, but know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I was happy to see that Lee Pomeroy, a second cousin I believe of mine, had the service for Norman. I would have been there for the service, if I wasn’t living in North Carolina. Remember the memories you had together, that will help you during the sad times. Trusting God to give you peace during this time of sorrow.
Love & Prayers,
Arthur & Diane Furman ( Donachy)
252-212-5960
furmanad@embarqmail.com
Dear Lou & Family:
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your Father. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this most difficult time.
Sincerely,
Linda Miller
State College, PA
Dearest Ethel & Family…I’m so sorry for your loss. May the days that follow find you surrounded by the love of family and friends and may great memories bring comfort to your heavy hearts. God Bless you all at this most difficult time.
Mike & Marie (Rensel) Leahy Greensboro, NC