Norma L. Sarver

She was 93, and in declining health since suffering a stroke three years ago.

Norma was born September 5, 1928, in Hancock, to the late Waino and Lilja (Anderson) Jarvela, and remained proud of her Upper Penninsula roots.

Norma married Robert R. Sarver on January 19, 1957, at the Apostolic Lutheran Church, Detroit. She was an elementary educator in the Livonia Public School system for many years.

Norma was a beloved mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was always quick to welcome family and friends. She was a constant loving positive presence through countless holidays, concerts, plays, sporting events, and college family weekends. She was a fierce competitor in cards, board games, and life in general and took special delight in winning. She was the driving force behind the family skiing, sailing, skating, and other outdoor activities and always believed she could master whatever the task was at hand. She water-skied into her 70’s and snow-skied into her 80’s. Her constant curiosity lead to a life of domestic and international travel with family and friends. Norma had a lifelong association with The Finnish Apostolic Lutheran Church.

Her willingness to “roll up her sleeves” was on full display when she and Bob became the driving force behind hundreds of fundraising pasty’s monthly.

Norma was never shy to ask the pointed question (of anyone at any time on any topic) or give pointed advice whether solicited or not. She genuinely was interested in and appreciated people and their stories.

Her ability to overcome loss, competitive spirit, and general can-do attitude was an inspiration to us all. The qualities of love of God and family, hard work, gentleness, hospitality, and helpfulness directed her life.

She will be forever loved and terribly missed.

Norma was preceded in death by her first husband, Edward Isaac, and sister, Dolores (the late Robert) Panke.

Surviving are her beloved husband of nearly 65 years, Robert; three devoted children, Gail Lynn McMahon, Reed (Wendy) Sarver, and Heidi (Joseph) Curiazza; grandchildren, Nicholas (Desiree) McMahon, Nathanial McMahon, Patrick Sarver, Natalie Sarver, Joey (Rachel DiMaggio) Curiazza, Natalie (Jay) Cook, and Nicholas (Samantha) Curiazza; and great grandchildren, Mia and Liv McMahon, and Beckett and Sonoma Cook.

Norma’s family will receive guests at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home on Thursday, December 9, 2021, from 5-8 pm, with a sharing of memories at 7 p.m.

Memorial tributes are suggested to Giving Tuesday may be made with the following contacts: Finlandia’s Giving Tuesday Page, Finlandia’s Facebook Page, or via mail at 601 Quincy St., Hancock, MI 49930, or by phone with Doreen Korpela at 906-487-7201.

Kindly keep Norma and her family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.