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BORN

1937

DIED

2025

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Norma Gunsalus Obituary

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Norma Jean Gunsalus. Norma, 87, of Weedsport, NY went home in the early morning of August 17, 2025 in Gladys, Virginia, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Birch River, West Virginia, to Patrick and Rosa (Fletcher) Dodrill on November 22, 1937. She was the third youngest of 16 siblings, all of whom are deceased. Norma and the youngest siblings moved as a young teenager to Limerick Street, Marcellus, NY, to be closer to their mother, who was undergoing TB treatment in northern New York.

It was in Skaneateles where she met the love of her life, James L. Gunsalus. They were married on October 2, 1954 and remained married 58.5 years until his death in 2013. Together they raised six children in Skaneateles, where our fondest memories remain.

She is survived by her children; Toni (Mike) Italiano, Vickie (Peter) Harris, Kim Brown, James Lee, Ronny and Lisa (Ron) DeSalis. She is also survived by her many treasured grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandbabies, that brought her hours of joy.

Norma will be remembered for her zest of life, quick wit, great sense of humor, flower gardens and most of all her deep love of family.

We wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to our sister, Lisa, for the patience, care and love that she selflessly gave to our mother. Lisa filled our mother's day with love and dignity.

Per Norma's wishes there will be no calling hours.

Hold your mom tight and tell her that you love her. Her absence will leave an everlasting ache in all the hearts that loved her.

Love you to the moon and back MOM!!!
Published by The Citizen on Aug. 21, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Norma Gunsalus

Sponsored by Finch & Finch, Inc. Funeral & Cremation Service - Gladys.

Not sure what to say?





Nancy Durnford

September 1, 2025

Lisa and family, sorry to see of the passing of your mother, grandmother, great - grandmother, she was definitely a jewel and a wonderful woman and I know she´ll be greatly missed by all. Kat and John spoke so highly of her always. My thoughts and prayers are with you always. Nancy Durnford

laurie walter

August 23, 2025

dear toni and family, i'm so sorry for your loss. my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Barbara Ohora Marren

August 22, 2025

Vicky and Family I am so sorry to see your Moms passing. My thoughts and prayers to all.Barbara Marren

Gwendolyn Holbein

August 22, 2025

So blessed she had a loving family and a good life. My condolences to the family. May she rest

Jill Bitterman

August 22, 2025

Dear Toni, Lisa and all of Norma´s family
I am so very sorry about your mom she was an incredible woman!
Even though I was only with her a few times she was always so sweet and kind to me
May she rest in peace and may our loving God wrap His arms around you and give you all comfort

Sandy Vuillemot

August 22, 2025

Toni, I´m so sorry to hear of your mother´s passing. Thinking of you and Mike at this time.

Karen Colella

August 21, 2025

Toni and Mike,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to you all

Jon corbett

August 21, 2025

My condolences to normal family.jon corbett

Julie Hickey

August 21, 2025

Toni and family, I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved Mom. We are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers. We hope that your memories help to bring you peace and comfort during this time.

Julie & Mitch Hickey

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Finch & Finch, Inc. Funeral & Cremation Service - Gladys

124 Flynn Street, Gladys, VA 24554

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