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.
Gilliland, Norman RalphNorman 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.