Norman Park's Obituary
MANTUANorman D. Park, 89 years of age, passed away Friday December 5, 2014. Born in Akron, Ohio on August 28, 1925, he was the son of Luther A. and Margaret (Whaley) Park. Norm moved with his family to Everett ( now part of Cuyahoga Valley National Park) during his adolescence. There he took every opportunity to walk the plowed fields in the hope of spotting an arrowhead, a stone ax, or a fragment of pottery. His extensive collection now testifies to his patience and keen eye. In 1943 he joined the U.S. Army proudly serving his country during World War II, where he was honorably discharged in 1946.Upon his return he obtained a degree from Kent State University, where he met his future wife, Evelyn Burt , their marriage taking place on September 2, 1949.Norm is remembered by many former Crestwood students as their favorite teacher. He brought a unique enthusiasm and sensitivity to his classroom, and often accompanied lessons with examples of American Indian artifacts from his collection. His expertise in Native American flint craft. stone masonry, and vegetable gardening, among other interests, made lasting impressions of students, friends, and family members alike. After retirement from teaching, Norm was generous with his time and talents, delivering Meal-on-Wheels and volunteering at the 4C's community food bank for several years. A longtime member of Hilltop Christian Church, he served as deacon, elder, and Sunday school teacher. His writing and speaking skills were particularly appreciated by the other groups in which he participated. He was a charter member of the Portage County Ostomy Society, the Portage County Retired Teachers Association, a charter member and former president of the Cuyahoga Valley Archaeological Society and was an avid bowler with the Crestwood Teachers Bowling League where his energy and team enthusiasm was always present. Norm is survived by his wife Evelyn at home, his children Tracy ( Ron) Stamm of Mantua, Claudia (Stephen) FitzGerald of Lakewood, Ohio, Camille ( Robert Wilson) Park of Kent, Ohio, Rachel (Raymond) Applegate of Houston, Texas, and Stuart Park of Chardon, Ohio. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, his sister Constance Conger of Akron, Ohio, his brother-in-law Andrew M. Burt of Salem, Ohio and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Miriam Josephine Crabtree and his brother Hugh Winston Park. No calling hours. A Memorial Service for Norm will be held Saturday December 13, 2014, 1100 a.m. at Hilltop Christian Church, 4572 West Prospect Street, Mantua, Ohio 44255 with Rev. Jeff Jackson officiating. Family and friends are invited to a time of fellowship at the church immediately following his service. A private family interment is being held at Hillside Cemetery, Mantua Village, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements are by the Green Family Funeral Home & Crematory Service in Mantua.
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