Norma Theresa Burnham

Norma Theresa Burnham, age 97, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, surrounded by her family. Born on October 28, 1928, in Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan, to her parents Eugene and Alice (nee: Arditto) Burnham, immigrants of Italy, Norma's life was characterized by her unwavering devotion to her family, her faith, and her community.
Norma's early years were marked by academic excellence; she was the valedictorian of St. Ambrose High School and furthered her education at Business College.
Norma's professional life included dedicated years at Ascension St. John's Hospital in medical billing, where her work ethic and compassion touched many. Her spirit of service extended well beyond her professional career as she volunteered in various community programs, supporting and championing her children and others in the community. An active member of the Catholic community, Norma was a woman of profound faith, teaching catechism for many years, and was deeply devoted to The Blessed Virgin Mary. She often sought spiritual guidance and healing teachings from Fr. Solanus, whose influence was a source of strength and comfort throughout her life.
Norma's interests and hobbies reflected her love for social engagement and her nurturing nature. An avid bowler and bridge player, she also had a passion for culinary exploration, both in trying different restaurants and cooking at home. Her home was a warm and welcoming space, thanks to her skills as an excellent homemaker. Norma's cooking, especially her perfect pies and homemade ravioli, was legendary among family and friends. Knitting, sewing, and traveling to visit family out of state were among her other joys, as were the lifelong friendships she established in her childhood.
Norma's greatest joy, however, was found in the simple act of gathering with her family, nurturing them not only with her cooking but also with her presence. Her loving, kind, and thoughtful nature made her a pillar in the lives of those who knew her. Norma Burnham's memory will be cherished and her legacy of love, kindness, and faith will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have felt her gentle touch upon their lives. Her passing is not just a loss but also a celebration of a life beautifully lived and a reminder of the impact one person can have on so many. Norma Burnham's story is not one of an end but a lasting testament to a life filled with purpose, generosity, and boundless love.
Norma's grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her biggest blessings in life. They brought her so much joy, love, laughter, and happiness.
Norma was the beloved wife of the late Richard Roland Burnham. She was the cherished mother to Richard Burnham ( Marla), Susan Watz, Joan Rhodes (Robert), Kathleen Dobozy (Thomas), and Mary Cedar. Her legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren, Robert Cedar, Melissa (Hayes) Heimbaugh, Samantha (Alexander) Salazar, Nicole Furukawa, Lindsay Rhodes, Lauren Rhodes, Alexis Rhodes, and Jake Dobozy, as well as her treasured great-grandchildren, Leighton Heimbaugh, Maddox Rodriguez, Charlie Salazar, and Ford Heimbaugh. She was the guiding light of her family, a role she embraced with joy and pride.
The eldest of three sisters, Norma is survived by her sister Dorothy Bloomhuff and was predeceased by her sister Francis Fredal.
A Funeral Mass for Norma will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 467 Fairford Rd., Grosse Pointe Woods. Norma will lie instate from 10:00am, until the start of her Funeral Mass at 10:30am. Interment follows at Resurrection Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Norma's honor are appreciated to Blood Cancer United, https://bloodcancerunited.org/regions/mi-in
Share memories of Norma with her family at Verheyden.org