Norma L. Simmen – Monongahela
Norma L. Simmen, 96, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2020, at Monongahela Valley Hospital surrounded by her loved ones. She was born June 21, 1924, in Monongahela, the daughter of the late J. Albert and Bertha Isaac Spence Sr. She celebrated 52 years in loving matrimony with her husband, Oscar N. Simmen Jr., who passed away Feb. 17, 1998. She resided at Lucetta Drive, Carroll Township, Lignelli Manor and most recently at the Residence at Hilltop. Norma was a lifelong member of Grace Lutheran Church and in recent years joined True Vine Anglican Church in Monongahela. Norma’s mission was caring for and loving her family and friends. She nurtured not only her children, but also her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a homemaker, Grace Lutheran quilter, gardener and baker. She enjoyed puzzles, crocheting, good books, recipes and especially Bible studies. During World War II, she was employed at the draft board and Liggett’s Spring & Axle as a railcar inspector. She was a proud member of the original Mothers Club, AARP and Monongahela Historical Society. She graduated from Monongahela High School in 1942. Left to cherish her memory are her brother, Paul (Fay) Spence of Hudson, Fla.; her children, Arlene (Wayne) Hammerstrom of Belle Vernon, Oscar (Donna) Simmen III of Monongahela, Joyce (Dennis) O’Dell of Monongahela and Noreen Tonti of New Eagle; grandchildren, Joseph (Amy) Snodgrass Jr., Jill (Jon) Mascara, David (Jamie) Simmen, Daniel Simmen, Michael (Amanda) O’Dell, Sean (Deidre) O’Dell, Carrie (Andrew) Codelka, Kevin (Jen) Hammerstrom; 15 great-grandchildren; two great-great- grandchildren; and many special nieces, nephews and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by her brother, J. Albert (Rose) Spence Jr.; two sisters, Eliza J. (Elmer) Towner, Margaret (Albert) Van Kirk Lape; and beloved son-in-law, William Tonti. Memorial contributions may be made to the Monongahela Area Library, 813 W. Main St., Monongahela, PA 15063 or True Vine Anglican Church, P.O. Box 151, Monongahela, PA 15063. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Norma’s family has chosen private visitations and funeral services. Interment will be held in Monongahela Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of FRYE FUNERAL HOME INC., 427 W. Main St., Monongahela. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fryefuneralhome.com.
