Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
FUNERAL HOME
Norma Cancellari Obituary
DRYDEN - Norma Rae Cancellari, 61, of Dryden, NY, passed away Friday, November 9, 2007, at home, after a four year battle with an aggressive Parkinson's Disease. She was born in Liberty, PA on August 8, 1946 and lived there until meeting her husband, Mike Cancellari. They were married on July 13, 1968 and moved to Dryden in 1973. Norma was the Jobs Coordinator for Cornell Career Services and worked there for 22 years until she retired this past August. She enjoyed her co-workers and the many student interns that worked with her. Her high energy, positive outlook on life and super smile were an asset to her as she helped coach the cheerleading squads at Dryden High School from 1986-1997. Her teams were among the best in the league and the friendships that were formed with the girls she mentored lasted well beyond their graduations. She was also very involved with the Dryden Patriots Baton Corps for many years with her daughter and was a strong supporter of all the twirlers as they competed on the state, regional and national levels.
Her calming influence, good nature and tremendous loyalty were a comfort to her many friends and family. She was someone you could always count on through good times and bad. Norma lived life by a simple philosophy: If you commit to something, you honor that commitment and if it is worth doing, it is worth doing to the best of your ability. These simple lessons were passed on to her children, grandchildren, and the many girls she coached. Norma's great loves, besides her family, were traveling, gardening, shopping, playing practical jokes and spending time with friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Norma is survived by her husband of 39 years, Michael; her daughter, Melaine (Christopher) Rottkamp of Poughkeepsie, NY; son, James (Kristine), also of Poughkeepsie; two grandsons, Nicholas and Philip Rottkamp; a brother, Alfred (Jennie) Harer of Wellsboro, PA; and her mother, Mildred, also of Wellsboro. She was predeceased by her father, Romain A. Harer on July 13, 2006.
The funeral service will be Tuesday, November 13, at 10:00 a.m. at Perkins Funeral Home with Rev. Alan Kinney of the United Methodist Church of Dryden officiating. Burial will be in Green Hills Cemetery, Dryden. The family will receive friends on Monday, November 12, from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home, 55 West Main St., Dryden. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Dryden Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 397, Dryden, NY 13053-0397.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Norma Cancellari
Fay & Frank
November 4, 2023
Miss you kiddo
Fay & Frank Gomes
November 4, 2022
We miss you kiddo
Tammy Custer
November 28, 2007
For many years Norma and her jokes made me laugh. After reading Norma's passing, she made me cry. But having personally experienced the passing of a parent with Parkinsons, as much as I will miss her, I know she is dancing, laughing and moving without any pain. I will miss you, my friend.
Tracy ("TC") Pelletier
November 28, 2007
I only met Norma a few short years ago, but every time I saw her it always felt as though we had known each other forever. No matter how tough things were for her she never seemed discouraged. She always had a smile and a laugh to share. Even though I met her as a client I always thought of her as a friend. Norma, you will be greatly missed! My heart goes out to your friends and family and every time I see a Yankees Jersey I will always think of you.
deborah steidle
November 20, 2007
Norma was such a special friend. We met in 2003 when I was dx. with PD. We shared PD, laughter and tears and many, many hours supporting each other and others. We were married within a year of each other, we both were twirlers and had many things other than pd in common. We both had loving families we adored. I was so honored a couple of years ago to meet "Yankee Mom" in person at a gathering of friends with PD. Norma, you will be so missed. It was an honor to call you my friend.
Hugs, Deborah Steidle
Robert Fries
November 20, 2007
Please accept our sincere condolences on Norma's passing.
Bob and Karen Fries
Jim Cancellari
November 20, 2007
mom,
I just wanted to let you know that I miss you and I am proud to be your son! When I see how many people's lives you have touched, it makes me smile. You were amazing with how much room you had in your heart. You were everyones mom and that says volumes about your character and the type of person you were.
I know you'll have an unobstructed view from where you'll be watching our games from (finally ;}) and it will be easy to pick me out, I'll be the one with the green socks on.
Thank you to everyone for all the kind words, hugs, and prayers.
Jim Cancellari
Scott Tharler
November 20, 2007
Well, I must be at the right place. Because everyone's written about the smiles and exuberance they remember eminating from this very special woman. Mama C was more than just a good friend's mom. She was a supportive, happy, vibrant soul, always ready to share a joke. When someone passes, people always say "she's smiling down at us," but I know in this case that it's really true. I'll miss her.
Sheri (Kurman) Lamp
November 18, 2007
Dear Melaine, my thougths and prayers are with you and your family. When I heard the sad news, I felt sorrow, but I must tell you that wonderful memories of AYOP flashed acrossed my mind. May you always hold the great memories that you and your mom shared close to your heart. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her. God Bless.
Beth Williams
November 16, 2007
Nana Norma was a ray of sunshine. We will miss her deeply, but she will always live in our hearts. Your family is in our prayers.
Frank Gomes
November 16, 2007
Norma; Fay and I miss your jokes, good humor, word’s of wisdom and your love of life and family. Melaine and Mike; we remember the good times of the past and pray you will get past the sorrow of losing a loving mother and wife. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Frank and Fay Gomes
Melaine Louise Cancellari Rottkamp
November 15, 2007
Dear Mom,
I bet you never imagined I'd be at a loss for words! How about: "this sucks!" But seriously, I will always miss you. You kept me calm when I was stressed, you knew just what to say and when to say it as well as what NOT to say. I learned so much from you and I am so proud to be able to share those lessons with my sons and my twirlers. I am thankful for your patience and blessed by your unconditional and never-ending love. Thank you for the optimistic, diva half of my genes. You were the best mom a girl could ever have!
With love always,
Melaine
Kelly Sedlak
November 15, 2007
Norma was a very special person and she will be missed. Love and prayers to everyone in her family.
Kelly (Gomes) Sedlak
Johnny and Karen Burns
November 15, 2007
To the Cancellari Family:
Thank you for letting us be a part of the wonderful celebration of Norma's life. It was a perfect tribute to a wonderful woman,mother,wife and friend. We will miss her presence, for it was a kind and gentle force. This world was a better place because she was in it. Love to you all!
Heidi Cornell
November 14, 2007
I was so saddened to hear of Norma's death. Although we haven't been in touch in our "older" years I have the fondest memories!! All of us twirlers were like one big happy family!! Norma was just like a second Mom and will be so missed! We will be praying for the rest of your family and thinking of you in the times ahead! With much love and sympathy!
Heidi (Wallace) Cornell & family (Dan, Kayla, Ben,Nick)
Mike Cancellari
November 14, 2007
Dear Norma,
I'm so sad you're not with us anymore, but I'm not selfish enough to want you to stay around and suffer any more pain and anguish than you've already endured. Words cannot express how much I miss you. You're always on my mind and forever in my heart.
Your loving husband, MIke
Chris and Alissa Macrina
November 14, 2007
Norma will always hold a special place in our hearts. I have a lot of memories of her growing up. She would kid around with me about how after football games my uniform never got dirty. And picking Jimmy and I up from football practice she never dropped me off at my house, she'd pull into her driveway and I had to walk the extra 100 yards to mine, no matter how bad I complained my legs hurt. She always managed to make you smile. Norma will forever be remembered.
June and Edith Denny
November 13, 2007
To Mike, Melaine, Jimmy and families, We were so sorry to hear about Norma's passing. We remember her smiling face and wonderful spirit. She made every time we were together extra special and fun. We will miss her very much. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Grandma and Aunt June Denny
Judy & Nelson Burkhard
November 13, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Mike, Melaine and Jimmy. I remember the nights I sat with Norma during a Dryden Basketball Game and our talks after the game. She will be missed by many but her memory will always be with us. God Bless.
Debra Fries-Baker
November 13, 2007
My sincerest condolences as you face this difficult time in your lives. As difficult as it may be, comfort by our Loving God is always near. May He comfort you and provide you rest. I will deeply miss Norma as she always was a burst of sunshine, both in our community and in the twirling world. Her words of encouragement both on and off the twirling floor were always cherished and will always be remembered. You all are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. May you find peace and comfort. God Bless.
Joshua Blackler
November 13, 2007
Norma was one of the most joyous people you ever met. She tirelessly worked with students of all types, was always ready with a funny story or joke. A true source of inspiration to all she worked with and encountered.
Janet Snoyer
November 13, 2007
Norma's easy laughter and generous nature made our office a very special place to work. She is larger than life and beautiful to the core. I miss her.
Julie Harris
November 13, 2007
Norma was a special woman. She always knew how to make someone smile. I always felt like part of her family from the first time we met. A smile and a hug from her could fix about anything. My thoughts and love are with you.
Liz (Savino) Smith
November 12, 2007
Norma was truly a gift to all whose lives she touched. Her warm smile and big hugs provided loving support to "her girls" during some very difficult times. While she is leaving many who loved her, heaven is welcoming yet another angel.
Jennifer Radi Greenberg
November 12, 2007
Our love and sympathy go out to your family during this very difficult time. I will miss Norma greatly - she was such a big part of my twirling life as well as my life at Cornell. We are thinking of you.
With love,
Brian & Jen (Radi) Greenberg
Chris Radi
November 12, 2007
Dear Mike, Melaine and Jimmy, You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Norma was a wonderful woman ... thoughtful, caring and just plain fun. She will be missed by all who knew her. Much of the Radi, Myer and Foland clan is spread all over the country right now, but rest assured that you are in all of our thoughts. Norma will always be in our fondest memories!
Maryellen Macrina
November 12, 2007
I have lost a very dear friend today. There will always be a very special place in my heart for Norma(and her pink nails)With my deepest sympathy. Maryellen
Andrea DeTerra
November 12, 2007
I am so very sorry and sad to hear about your loss. My thoughts go out to you and the rest of your family. Thank you so much for taking the time to let me know. Norma was not only my "boss" at Cornell from 95-96, but also a good friend -- full of energy, funny, with a great laugh that I can still remember, and who I always felt I could talk to. She made my last year at Cornell less stressful overall through her understanding, kindness and sense of humour every time I came in to the office. And she always took the time to stay in touch with me even though I was so far away after leaving Cornell. I am glad I had the opportunity to know her, and it is wonderful to see how many other people she touched with her positive nature throughout her life. My family and I send our best to all of you.
Fred Gentz
November 12, 2007
To the Cancellari Family, Have known your family for many years 32+ years, They have been the best years, in my life to have know Norma as a friend and a neighbor across the street. Always remember Norma was the best person in the world, no one will come close to her to be a friend to her, as she always gave back more than she would accept. The article in the paper was super, I for one will be lost with out her, I know the flowers on the street will never be the same without her, even convinced me to put some out. Take care all of you and remember if anyone in this world was loved Norma had it all, from everyone, the world will not be the same with out her
Margaret Vogt
November 12, 2007
Norma has a special place in my heart- I'll always remember her smiles and laughter, and the way she made the world seem brighter, even at the darkest hours. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jason Veley
November 12, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. C, Jim, and the rest of the family. Your family has always had a special place in my heart. I will never forget the way Norma embraced life and how she always put a smile on my face. She was an amazing woman!
Kelli Russell
November 12, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Cancellari family. I remember Norma as a bright spot at all the baton contests she attended. I am sure you will miss her dearly but have many wonderful memories to sustain you. May God Bless you all.
John Fracchia
November 12, 2007
It is with great sadness that I learned of Norma's passing, this morning. I got to know Norma through the Central New York Communications Consortium, a yearly event that both Cornell and Ithaca College are part of. Her smile was infectious and she could always be counted on for a kind word, a joke, and especially a caring ear. She was a person who not only made the team better, but who made each of us better as well. When I think of the span of her career and of her many community involvements, it’s likely that the number of people whose lives she positively impacted is uncountable. That’s a pretty amazing thing to be able to say about someone. And each of us who knew her carry a little bit of her positive energy with us to share with those whose lives we impact.
Irene Komor
November 12, 2007
Sincere condolences from a former co-worker of Norma's.
Kevin & Amy Gentz
November 12, 2007
Mikey, Jimbo & Melaine,
Norma(mom) will be deeply missed. We think about her everyday and will continue to do so. I remember all of the good times we had together and all of the games she taught me as we were growing up. She (you) always included me into your family and I am always greatful. We love you.
Norma & I ~ April 28, 2007
Robyn Day
November 12, 2007
I will forever remember Norma and her kind heart and beautiful smile. She was an inspiration and touched the lives of so many people. I will love and miss her always.
Harold & Rose Fries
November 12, 2007
We are so very sorry to hear of your losss. Norma was one very special lady with a beautiful smile. We have many wonderful memories not only of the twirling years but the school years too. Our thoughts,prayers and heart are with you all. She will always be with you and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Hugs and Prayers
Pat (Shaw) Anderson
November 12, 2007
Mike, Melanie and Jimmy,
On behalf of myself and my children (Grant and Bobbie Jo King) we express our heartfelt thoughts and prayers with all of you at this difficult time. Norma was the most wonderful woman! Like everyone else has said she was always smiling. She definitely kept us cheerleading and football Mom's sane!
She will truly be missed!
Diana and Earl Buckingham
November 12, 2007
Mike, Melaine and Jimmy,
Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with all of you at this of sorrow and loss. Norma was a very dedicated mom thru all the twirling years and always had a smile and words of encouragement for ALL the twirlers she knew.
She was a very special lady who will be deeply missed.
heather marshall
November 12, 2007
If I had to choose one word to describe Norma, it would be smiles. She was always full of her wonderful, bright eyed smiles !
she was a beautiful person, and will be greatly missed.
Maureen Brull
November 12, 2007
To Mike, Jimmy and Melaine,
I am grateful and honored to have known Norma. Her smile and words of encouragement always seemed to come at the right time. We shared stories of our grandchildren and memories of those fall seasons in the football stands at Dryden. A wonderful, loving woman. I'll miss her.
Jeremy Wood
November 12, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss, Mrs. Cancellari was loved by all of us who grew up with her devotion of making everyone around her better people. She will be missed. My prayers go out to all of you.
Robin Keith
November 12, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time of sorrow and loss. Norma was someone special! I will always remember her smile...and of coarse the way she loved to play a prank. May you find comfort and peace throughout the coming days.
Sandra DeTerra
November 12, 2007
Thank you for letting our daughter Andrea know that Ms. Norma passed away. Our deepest prayers and sympathy are being sent to you. Andrea called me this weekend and told me how kind Norma was to her while Andrea was a student at Cornell and how much she enjoyed working for Norma in Career Services.
With sympathy,
Sandra and Ray DeTerra and Family
Mike Lucas
November 12, 2007
Dear Mike, Melaine, Jim and family,
Mary and I would like to pass along our deepest symapathy during this most difficult time.
We are in San Francisco this week and will not be able to attend the service.
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you. Norma was a wonderful, caring, loving person who always had that great smile and wonderful words of encouragement and always knew how to have fun.
She will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her.
Mike & Mary Lucas
Jill Mazzone
November 11, 2007
To Norma's Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I worked with Norma several years ago while at Cornell, and she was such a fun and wonderful person. She always made me laugh and was the kind of person you couldn't help but smile around. I wish I could be there to meet all of you this week, but please know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers. She will be dearly missed by all of her friends at Cornell (and everywhere else).
Love,
Jill McNamee
November 11, 2007
Mike---we learned of Norma's passing through Kathy via Trish. This has to be a difficult time for all of you; good luck in the coming days. As you know, Brian and I didn't know Norma well; we were both inmpressed when she came to my party at the Pines having to be aware she'd know very few people there. She was clearly game to take us all on, and she added alot of fun to the get together.
You're in our thoughts---just take it a day at a time. xo--Jill and Brian McNamee
Mikey Ten Kate
November 11, 2007
Jimmy, Melanie, and Mr. C,
Norma was a great woman. She always had encouragement and a warm heart. Going to school with Jimmy and having the chance to know the family is a privaledge. My deepest condolences and thoughts are with you.
Kim Shane
November 11, 2007
Mike, Melaine , and of Jimmy;
My prayers are with all of you. The 32 years that we have known eachother, we have learned alot. Norma is a wonderful person both inside and out!!!She will be missed
Lyle & Esther Harer
November 10, 2007
Our thoughts & prayers are with Mike and children and the other members of Norma's family at this very difficult time. May she rest in peace.
She certainly was a joy.
Shannon Rose
November 10, 2007
Norma was an honest, sincere, woman who always enjoyed life, laughing and telling stories of her family. I will never forget Norma or how she has made my world a better place just by having been a part of it for just a while. Work never would have been the same without Norma and what's this WE $#%!. Norma is one person who will never be forgotten. My deepest sympathies to Mike and your children and grandchildren. Norma was definitely one of the good ones.
Sandi Thomas
November 10, 2007
Norma and I had a friendship that spanned quite a few years, and quite a few miles. We knew each other simply because we shared a disease-Parkinsons. She was always such a positive person, always joking, making others laugh. There was a group of us who became friends via the Internet because of our mutual struggles with PD. Norma was the "Class Clown" of the group. Norma loved her family so much and was so proud of them all. She loved the Yankees, she loved her students, and she was a blessing to so many folks. My prayers are with her family, my heart is saddened, but I know she is in a wonderful place now-one where we all aspire to be, and no longer in pain. God bless her family and bring them peace.
Harold Roberts
November 10, 2007
Mike and Family, Norma was a bright shiny part of our life, our Boys Chris and Charlie share our grief. Hank and Kathy Roberts
Bob & Daisy Wallace
November 10, 2007
What a beautiful write-up and it's so true of Norma's beautiful smile and caring ways. We have many wonderful memories of her and her family as we shared "twirling" trips to competitions with our daughter along with the Cancellaris. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. You have many beautiful memories to hold her in your hearts for a lifetime.
Chrissy Sanford
November 10, 2007
Dear Mike, Melaine, and Jimmy,
The hours and hours I spent with Norma are some of the best times of my life in Dryden. She was honest, funny, committed to any cause she undertook, and was a true friend to me during some very difficult times. She really was a great friend to Jason and Charisse also.
She has left a great legacy with her family and friends and will be missed.
Jason Boice
November 10, 2007
You probably do not remember us, but we lived next door to your family on Lee Road about 100 years ago. I am very sorry for your loss, even with 30 years gone by I remember your mother as a kind and loving women. Please know that your family is in our thoughts.
Jason and Charisse Boice
John and Sandy Hajney, Ron and Cheryl Bolduc
November 10, 2007
Norma holds a very special place in our hearts. She had a way of making everything feel alright with her beautiful smile. Sarah and Jennifer thought the world of her loving approach to life. Our hearts go out to all of you.
Michael Phelps
November 10, 2007
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Mike, Melaine, Jim and the entire Cancellari family. Our prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Mike and Barb Phelps
Showing 1 - 58 of 58 results
Make a Donation
in Norma Cancellari's name
Memorial Events
for Norma Cancellari
How to support Norma's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Norma Cancellari's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
