Norma Tracy Bauer

Norma Tracy Bauer, a lifelong advocate for the underdog and a tireless champion of social justice, passed peacefully into the arms of her Creator on Saturday, October 4, 2025. She was 80 years old.

Born on July 30, 1945, in Rochester, New York, Norma was the daughter of Norman and Anna Margeurite (Fuerher) Tracy. In 1968, she married James Bauer, and together they built a life full of laughter, love, and meaningful memories until his passing in 1999.

In 1988, Norma proudly earned her bachelor's degree in Sociology from Nazareth University, a reflection of her lifelong belief in the power of education and social change. Throughout her life, she was deeply involved in the communities where she lived-advocating for disability rights, social justice, and employment opportunities for others. Her dedication earned her numerous awards and the admiration of many whose lives she touched.

Norma was also a gifted writer and the author of The Housewife's Dilemma, but her greatest pride and joy was always her family.

She is survived by her children, Annette (Jon) Sobocinski and Dan (Miranda) Bauer; grandchildren, Tae-eun Hartley, Naomi, Abigail, Sarah, and Hayden Bauer, and Cecilia and Sophia Sobocinski; brother, Mark Tracy; sister, Terry Correa; sisters-in-law, Judi Trumbley and Mary (Bill) Robb; and brother-in-law, Robert (Kathy) Bauer. She was predeceased by her husband, James; her brother, Fr. Lawrence Tracy; her brother, Paul Tracy; her sister, Eileen Tracy; and her parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Norma's family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A graveside service will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery in Escanaba, Michigan. A Celebration of Norma's life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at The Fledge, 1300 Eureka St. Lansing, Michigan 48912. A visitation will be held just prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Norma's tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The Fledge or the Women's Center of Greater Lansing. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.