Norma Chandler

Norma Chandler, born Norma Margaret MacKinnon, entered this world on December 15, 1931 in Arlington, Massachusetts. Her father, Oliver MacKinnon, was a business owner, mechanic, and real estate investor. Her mother, Barbara Birt MacKinnon, was a school teacher.
Norma was raised in Somerville, Massachusetts, spending many of her summers "down east" on one of two family farms on Prince Edward Island. As a young girl she had many interests, including sewing, fixing things, and especially music. She would make her own clothes, help her father with projects, and taught herself how to play the piano by ear.
Norma excelled at school and sports, earning a spot on the varsity basketball team as an underclassman. As an upperclassman, she was one of two students in her high school hired by a local company to repair circuit boards used by MIT.
As a young adult, Norma met some missionaries and soon became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She went on to become a missionary herself in the New England States Mission, serving in numerous areas, including Windsor Locks, Connecticut and Nova Scotia.
After her mission, Norma was working as a ballroom dance instructor for Arthur Murray Dance Studio, where she was paired with a handsome new student, who was clearly smitten with his beautiful dance teacher. Bob Chandler won her heart and the two were married on October 29, 1960.
They soon had two boys, and then a girl, living on the top floor of the home, where she grew up. Needing more space for their growing family, they moved to Sturgess St. Medford, where they had another boy and met friends who became newly adopted family members.
As a mom, Norma was actively engaged in all her kids' activities, utilizing her creativity and handiness to help with school and other projects. Her patience and keen wit helped to lighten a difficult day. Her enthusiasm for their success made her their greatest cheerleader.
While raising her family, Norma worked as a realtor and landlord, helping to find housing for members of her church congregation. She acted as a surrogate mother for young families moving to the area, offering an understanding ear and gentle advice as they acclimated to their new lives. Long after her kids were raised, Norma continued to be of service and support to friends and her ever expanding family.
She passed away on June 9, 2022, surrounded by family. She is survived by her husband, Robert Chandler, her four children and spouses Scott (Cindy) Chandler, Brian (Susan) Chandler, Ellen (Michael) Pustizzi, and Douglas Chandler. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren with 2 more on the way, and countless other adopted family members.
Her words of encouragement and love will forever live in our hearts, cheering us on.
A Live Broadcast of Memorial services may be viewed beginning at 11:00 am on www.walkersanderson.com where condolences and memories may also be shared with the family.