Norma Blattner

Norma Philamine Louise Kies Blattner, 86, of Cape Girardeau died with grace and peace Friday, Dec. 9, 2011, in her home in the presence of her five children.

She was born July 5, 1925, at Cape Girardeau to William J. and Elsie Heyde Kies. She and Louis C. "Bud" Blattner Jr. were married Oct. 22, 1944.

Norma was baptized and confirmed at the Evangelical United Church of Christ. For the last 30 years she has been an active member of the First Presbyterian Church.

Norma graduated with a teaching degree from Southeast Missouri State Teachers College. She was devoted to the service of others, having spent 20-plus years as a volunteer at Southeast Hospital, delivering Meals on Wheels and serving on many church committees. Over the years, she was active in Toastmasters, Hopeful Investment Club, the Historical Association and other local organizations.

Survivors include two sons, J. Tim (Nancy) Blattner of Caldwell, N.J., Richard (Mary) Blattner of Columbia, Mo.; three daughters, Martha (Phil) Dodson of Cape Girardeau, Rebecca Arbuckle of Houston and Susan (Michael) Rotenberg of Nederland, Texas. Other survivors include ten grandchildren, Kindal Blattner-Buterin of Greensboro, N.C., Greg Blattner of Fenton, Mo., Heidi Dodson of Urbana, Ill., Brent Dodson of Dallas, Jay Stuart of Albuquerque, N.M., Andrea Montgomery of Charlotte, N.C., Trisha Clutts of Columbia, Riley and Jack Blattner of Columbia and Brandon Baker of Rome, Ga. Great-grandchildren include Elijah, Mary and Zelie Montgomery of Charlotte and Tyler Stuart of Albuquerque. She is also survived by five nieces and four nephews, many of whom considered her to be their second mom.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Martha Kies, L. Elsbeth Chesley and Ruth Trost; and one brother, William Kies Jr.

Norma put her faith, family and friends in the forefront of all she did. Her favorite pastimes included playing bridge, working crossword puzzles and watching Cardinal baseball games. (They won the World Series for her.) After raising five children, she became a world traveler.

A celebration of her life, officiated by the Rev. Bill Vincent, will be held at 10:30 a.m. today at First Presbyterian Church on Broadway. Burial will follow at Jackson City Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Emmaus Home, 220 Randolph St., St. Charles, MO 63301, or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.