Norma Essex Elsasser, 81, 230 E. Oak St., Celina, died at 11:48 a.m. Sept. 24, 2009, at the Gardens at Celina.

She was born April 8, 1928, in Van Wert to Albert and Norah Johnson Keck. In June 1949, she married John Essex, who died in 1987. On March 16, 1990, she married Arthur Elsasser, who died in 1997.

Surviving are a son, John (Kathleen) Essex, Sandusky; a daughter, Joan (Jim) Reed, Celina; two sisters, Edith Cavanaugh, Lafayette, Ind., and Eldean (Robert) Helle, Afton, Tenn.; three grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.

Deceased are a daughter, Anna Elizabeth Essex, and a granddaughter.

She was a registered nurse having worked at the University Hospital, Columbus, Gibbons Hospital, Celina, and as Walter Mersman's private nurse. She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Celina, where she was in the choir and on the organ committee. She also taught bible school and Sunday school.

Memorial service is 11:30 a.m. Monday at the church, the Rev. Paul Baglien officiating.

Calling is one hour prior to service at the church.

Contributions can be made to the church organ fund.

Arrangements are being handled by Lehman-Hogenkamp-Dzendzel Funeral Home, Celina. Condolences may be made to LHDfuneralhome.com.