Norma Donlan, 95, of Wrentham, passed peacefully on March 5, 2021.  Formerly of Walpole and Foxboro.  Beloved wife of the late Lawrence (Larry) E. Donlan and mother of the late Gary E. Donlan.  Born in Needham, MA Norma was the daughter of David and Mary Pearl MacDonald and sister of the late Warren MacDonald.

 

Norma spent her formative years in Needham.  At a young age, she and her brother were raised by their  Aunt Margaret and Uncle Carl Parker following the passing of their parents. Norma attended Needham schools and the Needham Baptist Church.  She graduated from Needham High School in 1943 where she was the Drum Major of the High School Band.  Proceeding through all levels of Girl Scouting Norma was always a proud scout volunteering as a certified swimming and horse riding instructor at area summer camps. She continued as a troop leader and in  adult leadership roles for the Walpole Girl Scouts for several years.  

 

One of her early employers was The Betty Crocker Co.  During WWII Norma volunteered rolling bandages with the American Red Cross.  She met her future husband after the war.  Larry and Norma were married at St. Catherine's Church, Norwood .  They made their home first in Norwood and later moved to Walpole becoming the parents of three sons.

 

Norma, once again volunteered  for the American Red Cross transporting patients to Boston area hospitals.  She was also a Welcome Wagon Greeter for Walpole.  Later, she was employed by Starline Structures Inc., Walpole as an administrative assistant for many years retiring in 1990.  

 

She was involved with the Norwood American Legion where her husband was a Past Commander.  Their sons were all members of the Sons of the American Legion at various state levels.  She helped coordinate with Legion events including Christmas parties for children, dinners and dances.  Norma and Larry, two of the best dancers on the floor, were known for their Jitterbug. 

 

Norma loved to golf, learning at Ponkapoag Golf Course in Canton  She competed in leagues there as well as Heather Hill in Plainville and Foxboro Country Club.  As an active member with the Foxboro Senior Center Norma participated in many activities and travel opportunities including overseas travel to Ireland and Scotland and various day trips. She especially enjoyed trips spent with family in Florida, New Hampshire and their cruises to Bermuda, the New England coast and Canada.

 

An excellent and competitive card and bridge player Norma belonged to groups at the Walpole Public Library, St. Marks Episcopal Church in Foxboro, Franklin and Foxboro Country Clubs often playing several times a week up until this past year.  She enjoyed reading and jigsaw puzzles.

 

Loving mother to Brian J. Donlan and his wife Jayne of Florida and Paul E. Donlan and his wife Dorothy of Wrentham.

 

Proud Gramma of Paul Gary Donlan and his wife Kerry of Walpole, Laura Ribeiro and her husband Mardem of Bellingham.  Corey Breingan and her husband Jon, Joseph Donlan and his wife Lori, Chris Donlan and his wife Katie all of Florida. 

 

Proud Great Gramma of Paul D., Leia, Jaycob, Logan, Jeremy, Caroline, Nicholas, Deacon, Beau, Della, and James.

 

If desired, contributions may be made to Epiphany Parish Memorial Fund, 62 Front St., Walpole, MA  02081

 

A private graveside service will be conducted by The Rev. Christen H. Mills at a future date.