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Norma Anita "Mom" Firestone
Norma Anita "Mom" Firestone
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Norma Firestone Obituary
Norma had a successful career in buying, selling, and refinishing antiques and furniture. She was also actively involved in the Human Crisis Council of Orlando, where she dedicated her time to helping the poor and less fortunate. In her free time, Norma enjoyed antiquing, reading, walking, investing and lifelong learning. Norma also found joy in spending time with family and friends.
Norma is survived by her children Michael Chesen, Richard Chesen, and Laurie Chesen. She was preceded in death by her parents, Morris and Elizabeth Kohen. A celebration of life to honor Norma will be held for immediate family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to NAMI or the American Cancer Society.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Linda Cavanaugh
June 15, 2024
Norma, my true friend, her concern and caring attitude will be greatly missed by everyone she touched. I met Norma in the mid-1980s in Longwood when she knocked on my door to see if my boys, 13 and 16, might be interested in some lawn work. From that time on, we were early morning walking buddies until she moved to Hollywood. Norma was always truly interested in others-who they were, what they thought, how they felt, could she help. This is a rare quality and I call it a "you people" trait. There are "you" people and there are "me" people. We´ve all known "me" people-It´s all about them. With Norma, focus was always on you, not her. I have known few who possess this ability. My father-in-law is one and Norma is another. I position that statement in the present because their energy and life lesson is with us always. Thank you, Norma, for being such a good friend.
Margo Fleisher
June 10, 2024
Aunt Norma was an important influence on me when I transitioned from high school to college, and she handled many of the important details so I would be successful. I always admired how she was a master of social networking long before MySpace or Facebook, and she was always positive and encouraging. She was the one who kept us connected to our extended family and was an important part of our lives.
Bennett Fleisher
June 10, 2024
What can I say that has not already been said. I was so devastated when I got the call from brother Harris that our Aunt Norma had passed. If it were not for her, I am not sure I would have ever finished college and be as successful as I am. She carefully orchestrated getting my siblings and me to college which was a huge undertaking. Harris, Neil, Margo and I are forever grateful for this. This in itself was such a huge part of each of us moving on in our professional lives, but there is so much more to mention.
Our second cousin Harry (her first cousin), had made a promise to help us with college and send us to Israel. While Harry financed this, Aunt Norma made it happen for Neil, Margo and me. To this day, that trip still has remained the single most important overseas trips that I have done.
During my college years, she went above and beyond making sure that I had food in my belly and that I had clothes on my back. Why you might ask? Well, this is just what she does and I am so forever grateful for her compassion, guidance and love.
I've been pondering how impactful she has been my families life and how she was always doting of Mike, Rich and Laurie. Her memory is truly a blessing.
One funny memory I have, that I think I will share is: When my son Leeam turned one years old there was a party at my house and Aunt Norma walked into the family room where we watching "Family Guy". The episode was "When You Wish Upon a Weinstein". Peter Griffin was singing about how his son Chris needed to be Jewish and when she heard the song she let out a gasp and said something like "Oh my, what is this?", while laughing.
Kay Tynan
June 8, 2024
Norma was a great friend for over 30 years and I will miss her dearly! May God continue to comfort and bless her children and family with peace and love.
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Neil Leve
June 7, 2024
Dear Cousins,
Aunt Norma was always involved in our lives. She was a leader in our family and was the glue that connected us. She was always sharp and was generous with advice and feedback. She was generous with expressions of affection. She worried a lot about everyone and would be first there if she felt a need. She put a lot of time and energy into helping family and others. I remember, the work she did while living in the Orlando area. She would collect shoes from various stores. These shoes were usually one of a pair. Apparently, there are a lot of people with different sized feet. She would sort and pair the shoes together. I remember helping her on one or more occasions. She would take these shoes and other donated garments to charitable organizations.
I miss Aunt Norma, and so deeply sorry for her Loss.
Sam Frager
June 2, 2024
Richard, Michael, & Laurie
My deepest condolences on the loss of your mother.
I came in contact with Norma via a phone call by pure chance/luck
Discovering we were related thru the Stern family in Philadelphia
We continued to keep in touch.
Providing her with family updates and photos.
Your mother was always super appreciative
And I was also lucky to be able to speak to my grandmothers (Molly) first cousin!
I will definitely miss speaking to her
Steven weisbond
June 1, 2024
Dear rich, Mike and Laurie, I was so saddened to hear of your mother´s passing. From the moment I met her over 4o years ago, I always had a special bond with her. She had a great sense of humor and always gave great advice; she knew the ins and outs of everything. You were so lucky to have such a wonderful devoted mother. She was one in a million! Fredda loved talking with her and she was very patient with my kids. Also, my parents loved her and had a special friendship. I always admired how she managed to get through some of the tough parts of her life; she was one strong woman! We all loved her and she will be greatly missed by all! May her memory be a blessing. Steve, Fredda, Erin and jay
Paul Hittler
June 1, 2024
Michael, Richard & Laurie,
Your mother always made me feel like one of the family anytime I dropped in for a visit to her home with one of you or attended one of the many family gatherings you have invited me to at your homes.
She had an inquisitive mind and was always willing to share her advice on almost any topic. She enjoyed discussing investments with me. To that end, I know she had a deep concern for leaving the best possible legacy she could to you, her children, while living a modest lifestyle herself.
I had not been aware of her charitable volunteer work, but it speaks highly to her quiet generosity of spirit that she never mentioned this.
I´m sure you will have many wonderful memories of her you will cherish into the future.
Kate Chesen
May 31, 2024
My mother-in-law always considered me as her daughter.
She will forever be remembered for the things that she loved to do as well as for the love that she spread to others through her kind gestures.
Sleep Well Mom
Richard Chesen
May 28, 2024
My Mom was everything to me. She was always there for me in times of joy and sorrow. She was one of the few people that I could count on to discuss things such as work, relationships, politics or anything else. She was a great listener, honest, smart and wise on so many topics. She would often cut out articles for myself or my brother to read, much like her Dad did. I always knew that she truly cared, loved and wanted the best for me and my siblings. She didn't covet or desire much for herself, preferring to leave more for her children.
I am so grateful that to have had her as my Mom. She helped me in more ways that I can count. Her loss to me is immeasurable. I miss speaking, seeing and hugging her so very much. I take comfort in knowing that she will always be with me and for all the lives she blessed by her presence.
Love you forever Mom.
Michael Chesen
May 27, 2024
My mother, Norma Firestone was a very caring person. She cared deeply about her children, her family, friends, and neighbors.
Her concern for the welfare of those around her was genuine and unending.
She was a devoted mother, sister, daughter, and wife.
My mom was a very generous person with her time and giving to those in need. She could have lived more lavishly , but chose not to so that she could give to others.
Mom was a fighter and never gave up on those who needed help. She enjoyed simple things such as a favorite TV program or chatting with family.
My mom's greatest reward was time spent with family. She was always available for council and had a sharp mind.
Honesty and good moral character were two of many values that she held dear.
My mom will be missed very much, but will live on in the memories of those that knew her.
A. Levitt
May 27, 2024
I had the pleasure of knowing Norma for over 40 years after first meeting her son Richard in professional school. She was devoted to her children, with a wonderful smile, always gracious, warm, and welcoming, A true lady.
She will be very missed by all who knew her.
Micki Dickoff
May 27, 2024
Dear Richard, Laurie and Michael,
I´m so sad to learn about your Mom´s passing. Norma was best friends with my Mom and so kind and caring to me and my sister. I loved and appreciated her, and will carry her in my heart always. May her memory be a blessing!
Sending love and hugs,
Micki
Lynn Hillman
May 27, 2024
When we were children, my brothers and I called her Aunt Norma because she was ten+ years older, but she was really our cousin, with three little kids. I remember the fun we had in her modern bright home (think, eg, orange shag rug), ahead of the times. Later as we became adults, she became a beloved cousin, often offering friendship and assistance.
Karen Dickoff
May 27, 2024
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lisa Leve
May 27, 2024
Aunt Norma was always magical with fixing clothing and she always thought of me when finding nice outfits, would fix/alter them for me. She was kind and always worried about others and how they were doing.
Richard Chesen
May 27, 2024
My mom would call me on my way home from work. She was always concerned about me falling asleep while driving, and wanted to make sure that I got home safe.
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