Norma F. Gelles

Norma F. Gelles passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, at the age of 95 in Canton, MA (formerly of Holbrook and Bridgton, ME).  Born on April 14, 1929, in Malden, MA, she was the oldest of two children of the late Lewis and Ruth Frost. 

Norma was the loving wife of the late Robert Gelles, dear sister of Maxine Rocaberte of Medford and beloved mother of Debra Kenny (and her late husband Robert) of Easton, Karen Mileika (and her husband Daniel) of Easton, Dana Gelles (and his wife Joanne) of Colorado, and stepmother to Howard Gelles of Holden.  Loving grandmother to Robert Kenny Jr., Kristy-Lee LePage, Olivia Mileika, Heather Mileika, Jared Mileika, Nathan Gelles, Savannah Gelles, Peter Gelles, Steven Gelles, Timothy Gelles and several great-grandchildren. 

Norma began working as a secretary in a Somerville law firm at the age of 13 and continued working throughout her high school years.  She graduated from Somerville High School and eventually went on to become a professional paralegal, a career she loved, and worked for two attorneys in a Randolph law firm until her retirement. 

After retiring to Bridgton, Maine, Norma became an advocate against domestic violence, often accompanying victims to court and providing valuable support when they had no one else to turn to. 

Norma had many hobbies and interests. She loved roller skating, a sport that brought her great joy, and she started competing at the “young” age of 52. She enjoyed sewing and making costumes for her competitions as well as for her children who also skated.  A culinary enthusiast, Norma loved to cook, often experimenting with new recipes.  After retiring, she found a new passion as an artist creating many pieces in watercolors and charcoal.

In 2019, following the passing of her husband, Norma moved to Easton, MA to be closer to her daughters. 

Norma’s memory will be kept alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.  She will be deeply missed by all.

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