Norma J. Cutler

Norma Johanna Guezen Cutler, 87, passed away peacefully on January 25th, 2026. Born in Detroit, MI on May 5, 1938 she was the daughter of the late Fredrik and Cornelia Guezen, and sister to the late Fred (Margie) Guezen.

After graduating from Wayne State University as a dietician, Norma married Edward Cutler and started a family. Her science career took a turn as she went back to school to complete a Biology degree from Utica College. Norma became an integral part of Ed’s study of the marine worm, Sipunculans. Over her life, she co-authored many papers on the subject, and later served as the freshman biology lab instructor at Hamilton College for many years.

Norma was a loving mother and grandmother and a great friend to many. She was active for years at First Presbyterian Church in Utica, NY, where she had many friends. She loved to travel, having visited all 50 states, and over two dozen countries. She was an avid reader, loved to play cards and games, and knit many caps and blankets for Cancer patients.

Norma is survived by her daughters, Jill (Minas) Apelian, Lynn (Mark) Pickett; her grandchildren, Kat Apelian, Rob (Zan Wong) Apelian, Zachary Pickett (Jane Walton) and Elisa Pickett; her cousin Carol Ann Baughman; her nephew Bob (Judy) Guezen; and nieces Debbie (Ken) Wutka, and Kathie (Rick) Bower.

The family would like to thank the staff of Morningside House of Collegeville for the engaging activities and compassionate care.

Services will be private.

Memorial donations in memory of Norma Cutler can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association ( Help fight Alzheimer's.). Please use the email apelian1417@comcast.net for e-notification to the family.

May you rest in peace.