In Memory of
Norma H. Castellini
February 22, 1927 - March 6, 2012
If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Norma H. Castellini. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Norma was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what she meant.
Norma was born February 22, 1927 on at home on a ranch in Lakeside, California. She was the daughter of Joseph and Ramona Montijo. Norma was raised in Lakeside, California and National City, California. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. Norma was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Norma's personality throughout her life.
Though Norma was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with her family, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Norma was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Norma worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Norma was raised with three siblings. She had two sisters Bertha and Gloria and a brother Richard. Norma and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.
As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Norma was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although she had an exacting nature, Norma was always tactful. One thing Norma will certainly be remembered for is that, when she got up in the mornings, she was ready and raring to go. As a young girl, Norma had a number of interests and was an active child. In her spare time she was a artist and would draw storybook characters.
For Norma, the school routines were never a problem although she generally preferred variety to structure. She seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And she was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Norma was also adept at details. Norma was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. She went to Sweetwater High School where she finished the 11th grade. She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.
There was one thing that all of Norma's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that she was a talker. She could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Norma was such a popular person throughout her life. But Norma was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Norma was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While she maintained personal standards and her own personal values, Norma was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Norma was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Norma was fairly comfortable playing the role of "host" for just about any occasion. When Norma made friends, she made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of her best friends were Mercy and Marcella from kindergarten and Minnie Hernandez from Jr. High. Later in life, she became friends with Frank and Doris Simmonetti and Margie and many others.
Norma was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Norma cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Norma married Joe Hamlin in March 1949 and was married to him till 1951. Norma married Joseph Pompeo Castellini on June 30, 1956 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of National City, California. Compassionate and devoted, Norma worked hard to make her new life partner happy.
Harmony was important to Norma and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Norma was blessed with four children, three sons Joseph, Anthony and Rocky and one daughter Sandra. They were also blessed with eight grandchildren, Grant, Alexis, Joseph Robert, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea. Norma was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Norma was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Norma would listen before she would act.
Taking her work seriously came naturally to Norma, and she expected the same from those around her. Norma was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a "people person" and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Norma was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Norma handled well. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad "big picture." Her primary occupation was a mother and homemaker. She was employed for 10 years in a printing company for Business forms. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.
A methodical woman, Norma enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite pursuits were designing, sewing and creating clothes, mostly wedding gowns and crocheting. She also loved watching Mexican soap operas (Novellas).
Her keen interest in things that affected the lives of other people led Norma to become actively involved in professional and community organizations. Because she was outgoing and worked well with others, Norma did her fair share of volunteer work. And she wouldn't shy away from taking the lead on committees or events, either. She was a born list maker and was great at creating and sticking to schedules. Throughout her later years, Norma was an active member of the Grand Ladies of National City.
Norma was the kind of person who would readily move into action in order to help others. She was appreciated and respected. She could find value in the opinions of others and was passionate about her own values and beliefs. So it's little wonder that she was active and highly valued by those in her community, serving on committees for her children's school as a volunteer.
Her high moral standards and traditional values served Norma well with her faith. Religion and faith were important to her. She was a member of St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Lemon Grove, California for 46 years. She was well respected because she was such an outgoing individual who sought to help in any manner she could.
A generous and compassionate woman, Norma accomplished much during her lifetime. Though she never set out to gain individual recognition, Norma was recognized and given awards for her many and varied efforts throughout her life. Some of her most prestigious awards included in Art and Sewing in High School.
Not only did Norma enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. She was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, Europe, China, Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and across the United States.
Norma was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Pete, a Canary; Basco, a Dog; Sparky, a Dog and many Cats. Her family was rounded out by Lovie and Bubbie.
Since it was easy for Norma to meet and get to know new people, she quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once she met those new friends, she loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. In retirement, she found new pleasure in helping others, sewing, crocheting, visiting others and having parties. Even in retirement, Norma stayed in touch with her old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. She was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered her.
Norma passed away on March 6, 2012 at Kaiser Hospital in San Diego, California. Norma became ill with a bad cold and a very bad infection which went into double pneumonia.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Sandra and Richard Garske; sons and daughters-in-law Joseph P. & Deborah Castellini Jr. and Phillip C. "Rocky" and Meg Castellini; sisters Bertha Lockwood and Gloria Johnston and brother and sister-in-law Richard and Mary Montijo and 8 grandchildren Grant, Alexis, Joe Robby, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea.
Visitation will be on Thursday, March 15, 2012 from 1:30 - 4 p.m. at Conrad Lemon Grove Mortuary (7387 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945). Vigil Service will be on Thursday, March 15th at 6 p.m. at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church (8086 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945) Funeral Mass will be on Friday, March 16 at 1 p.m. also at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church. She will be laid to rest besides her husband Joseph and son Anthony.
Norma was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever she said something, she meant it. Norma was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Norma H. Castellini.
Eternal rest grant Norma, O Lord.
May she rest in peace. Amen.
May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Norma H. Castellini
February 22, 1927 - March 6, 2012
If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Norma H. Castellini. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Norma was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what she meant.
Norma was born February 22, 1927 on at home on a ranch in Lakeside, California. She was the daughter of Joseph and Ramona Montijo. Norma was raised in Lakeside, California and National City, California. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. Norma was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Norma's personality throughout her life.
Though Norma was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with her family, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Norma was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Norma worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Norma was raised with three siblings. She had two sisters Bertha and Gloria and a brother Richard. Norma and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.
As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Norma was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although she had an exacting nature, Norma was always tactful. One thing Norma will certainly be remembered for is that, when she got up in the mornings, she was ready and raring to go. As a young girl, Norma had a number of interests and was an active child. In her spare time she was a artist and would draw storybook characters.
For Norma, the school routines were never a problem although she generally preferred variety to structure. She seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And she was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Norma was also adept at details. Norma was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. She went to Sweetwater High School where she finished the 11th grade. She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.
There was one thing that all of Norma's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that she was a talker. She could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Norma was such a popular person throughout her life. But Norma was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Norma was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While she maintained personal standards and her own personal values, Norma was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Norma was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Norma was fairly comfortable playing the role of "host" for just about any occasion. When Norma made friends, she made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of her best friends were Mercy and Marcella from kindergarten and Minnie Hernandez from Jr. High. Later in life, she became friends with Frank and Doris Simmonetti and Margie and many others.
Norma was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Norma cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Norma married Joe Hamlin in March 1949 and was married to him till 1951. Norma married Joseph Pompeo Castellini on June 30, 1956 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of National City, California. Compassionate and devoted, Norma worked hard to make her new life partner happy.
Harmony was important to Norma and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Norma was blessed with four children, three sons Joseph, Anthony and Rocky and one daughter Sandra. They were also blessed with eight grandchildren, Grant, Alexis, Joseph Robert, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea. Norma was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Norma was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Norma would listen before she would act.
Taking her work seriously came naturally to Norma, and she expected the same from those around her. Norma was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a "people person" and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Norma was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Norma handled well. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad "big picture." Her primary occupation was a mother and homemaker. She was employed for 10 years in a printing company for Business forms. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.
A methodical woman, Norma enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite pursuits were designing, sewing and creating clothes, mostly wedding gowns and crocheting. She also loved watching Mexican soap operas (Novellas).
Her keen interest in things that affected the lives of other people led Norma to become actively involved in professional and community organizations. Because she was outgoing and worked well with others, Norma did her fair share of volunteer work. And she wouldn't shy away from taking the lead on committees or events, either. She was a born list maker and was great at creating and sticking to schedules. Throughout her later years, Norma was an active member of the Grand Ladies of National City.
Norma was the kind of person who would readily move into action in order to help others. She was appreciated and respected. She could find value in the opinions of others and was passionate about her own values and beliefs. So it's little wonder that she was active and highly valued by those in her community, serving on committees for her children's school as a volunteer.
Her high moral standards and traditional values served Norma well with her faith. Religion and faith were important to her. She was a member of St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Lemon Grove, California for 46 years. She was well respected because she was such an outgoing individual who sought to help in any manner she could.
A generous and compassionate woman, Norma accomplished much during her lifetime. Though she never set out to gain individual recognition, Norma was recognized and given awards for her many and varied efforts throughout her life. Some of her most prestigious awards included in Art and Sewing in High School.
Not only did Norma enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. She was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, Europe, China, Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and across the United States.
Norma was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Pete, a Canary; Basco, a Dog; Sparky, a Dog and many Cats. Her family was rounded out by Lovie and Bubbie.
Since it was easy for Norma to meet and get to know new people, she quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once she met those new friends, she loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. In retirement, she found new pleasure in helping others, sewing, crocheting, visiting others and having parties. Even in retirement, Norma stayed in touch with her old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. She was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered her.
Norma passed away on March 6, 2012 at Kaiser Hospital in San Diego, California. Norma became ill with a bad cold and a very bad infection which went into double pneumonia.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Sandra and Richard Garske; sons and daughters-in-law Joseph P. & Deborah Castellini Jr. and Phillip C. "Rocky" and Meg Castellini; sisters Bertha Lockwood and Gloria Johnston and brother and sister-in-law Richard and Mary Montijo and 8 grandchildren Grant, Alexis, Joe Robby, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea.
Visitation will be on Thursday, March 15, 2012 from 1:30 - 4 p.m. at Conrad Lemon Grove Mortuary (7387 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945). Vigil Service will be on Thursday, March 15th at 6 p.m. at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church (8086 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945) Funeral Mass will be on Friday, March 16 at 1 p.m. also at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church. She will be laid to rest besides her husband Joseph and son Anthony.
Norma was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever she said something, she meant it. Norma was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Norma H. Castellini.
Eternal rest grant Norma, O Lord.
May she rest in peace. Amen.
May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
In Memory of
Norma H. Castellini
February 22, 1927 - March 6, 2012
If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Norma H. Castellini. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Norma was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what she meant.
Norma was born February 22, 1927 on at home on a ranch in Lakeside, California. She was the daughter of Joseph and Ramona Montijo. Norma was raised in Lakeside, California and National City, California. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. Norma was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Norma's personality throughout her life.
Though Norma was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with her family, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Norma was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Norma worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Norma was raised with three siblings. She had two sisters Bertha and Gloria and a brother Richard. Norma and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.
As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Norma was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although she had an exacting nature, Norma was always tactful. One thing Norma will certainly be remembered for is that, when she got up in the mornings, she was ready and raring to go. As a young girl, Norma had a number of interests and was an active child. In her spare time she was a artist and would draw storybook characters.
For Norma, the school routines were never a problem although she generally preferred variety to structure. She seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And she was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Norma was also adept at details. Norma was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. She went to Sweetwater High School where she finished the 11th grade. She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.
There was one thing that all of Norma's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that she was a talker. She could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Norma was such a popular person throughout her life. But Norma was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Norma was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While she maintained personal standards and her own personal values, Norma was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Norma was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Norma was fairly comfortable playing the role of "host" for just about any occasion. When Norma made friends, she made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of her best friends were Mercy and Marcella from kindergarten and Minnie Hernandez from Jr. High. Later in life, she became friends with Frank and Doris Simmonetti and Margie and many others.
Norma was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Norma cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Norma married Joe Hamlin in March 1949 and was married to him till 1951. Norma married Joseph Pompeo Castellini on June 30, 1956 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of National City, California. Compassionate and devoted, Norma worked hard to make her new life partner happy.
Harmony was important to Norma and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Norma was blessed with four children, three sons Joseph, Anthony and Rocky and one daughter Sandra. They were also blessed with eight grandchildren, Grant, Alexis, Joseph Robert, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea. Norma was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Norma was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Norma would listen before she would act.
Taking her work seriously came naturally to Norma, and she expected the same from those around her. Norma was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a "people person" and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Norma was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Norma handled well. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad "big picture." Her primary occupation was a mother and homemaker. She was employed for 10 years in a printing company for Business forms. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.
A methodical woman, Norma enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite pursuits were designing, sewing and creating clothes, mostly wedding gowns and crocheting. She also loved watching Mexican soap operas (Novellas).
Her keen interest in things that affected the lives of other people led Norma to become actively involved in professional and community organizations. Because she was outgoing and worked well with others, Norma did her fair share of volunteer work. And she wouldn't shy away from taking the lead on committees or events, either. She was a born list maker and was great at creating and sticking to schedules. Throughout her later years, Norma was an active member of the Grand Ladies of National City.
Norma was the kind of person who would readily move into action in order to help others. She was appreciated and respected. She could find value in the opinions of others and was passionate about her own values and beliefs. So it's little wonder that she was active and highly valued by those in her community, serving on committees for her children's school as a volunteer.
Her high moral standards and traditional values served Norma well with her faith. Religion and faith were important to her. She was a member of St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Lemon Grove, California for 46 years. She was well respected because she was such an outgoing individual who sought to help in any manner she could.
A generous and compassionate woman, Norma accomplished much during her lifetime. Though she never set out to gain individual recognition, Norma was recognized and given awards for her many and varied efforts throughout her life. Some of her most prestigious awards included in Art and Sewing in High School.
Not only did Norma enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. She was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, Europe, China, Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and across the United States.
Norma was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Pete, a Canary; Basco, a Dog; Sparky, a Dog and many Cats. Her family was rounded out by Lovie and Bubbie.
Since it was easy for Norma to meet and get to know new people, she quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once she met those new friends, she loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. In retirement, she found new pleasure in helping others, sewing, crocheting, visiting others and having parties. Even in retirement, Norma stayed in touch with her old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. She was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered her.
Norma passed away on March 6, 2012 at Kaiser Hospital in San Diego, California. Norma became ill with a bad cold and a very bad infection which went into double pneumonia.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Sandra and Richard Garske; sons and daughters-in-law Joseph P. & Deborah Castellini Jr. and Phillip C. "Rocky" and Meg Castellini; sisters Bertha Lockwood and Gloria Johnston and brother and sister-in-law Richard and Mary Montijo and 8 grandchildren Grant, Alexis, Joe Robby, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea.
Visitation will be on Thursday, March 15, 2012 from 1:30 - 4 p.m. at Conrad Lemon Grove Mortuary (7387 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945). Vigil Service will be on Thursday, March 15th at 6 p.m. at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church (8086 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945) Funeral Mass will be on Friday, March 16 at 1 p.m. also at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church. She will be laid to rest besides her husband Joseph and son Anthony.
Norma was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever she said something, she meant it. Norma was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Norma H. Castellini.
Eternal rest grant Norma, O Lord.
May she rest in peace. Amen.
May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Norma H. Castellini
February 22, 1927 - March 6, 2012
If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Norma H. Castellini. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Norma was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what she meant.
Norma was born February 22, 1927 on at home on a ranch in Lakeside, California. She was the daughter of Joseph and Ramona Montijo. Norma was raised in Lakeside, California and National City, California. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. Norma was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Norma's personality throughout her life.
Though Norma was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with her family, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Norma was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Norma worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Norma was raised with three siblings. She had two sisters Bertha and Gloria and a brother Richard. Norma and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.
As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Norma was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although she had an exacting nature, Norma was always tactful. One thing Norma will certainly be remembered for is that, when she got up in the mornings, she was ready and raring to go. As a young girl, Norma had a number of interests and was an active child. In her spare time she was a artist and would draw storybook characters.
For Norma, the school routines were never a problem although she generally preferred variety to structure. She seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And she was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Norma was also adept at details. Norma was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. She went to Sweetwater High School where she finished the 11th grade. She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.
There was one thing that all of Norma's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that she was a talker. She could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Norma was such a popular person throughout her life. But Norma was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Norma was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While she maintained personal standards and her own personal values, Norma was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Norma was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Norma was fairly comfortable playing the role of "host" for just about any occasion. When Norma made friends, she made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of her best friends were Mercy and Marcella from kindergarten and Minnie Hernandez from Jr. High. Later in life, she became friends with Frank and Doris Simmonetti and Margie and many others.
Norma was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Norma cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Norma married Joe Hamlin in March 1949 and was married to him till 1951. Norma married Joseph Pompeo Castellini on June 30, 1956 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of National City, California. Compassionate and devoted, Norma worked hard to make her new life partner happy.
Harmony was important to Norma and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Norma was blessed with four children, three sons Joseph, Anthony and Rocky and one daughter Sandra. They were also blessed with eight grandchildren, Grant, Alexis, Joseph Robert, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea. Norma was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Norma was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Norma would listen before she would act.
Taking her work seriously came naturally to Norma, and she expected the same from those around her. Norma was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a "people person" and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Norma was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Norma handled well. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad "big picture." Her primary occupation was a mother and homemaker. She was employed for 10 years in a printing company for Business forms. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.
A methodical woman, Norma enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite pursuits were designing, sewing and creating clothes, mostly wedding gowns and crocheting. She also loved watching Mexican soap operas (Novellas).
Her keen interest in things that affected the lives of other people led Norma to become actively involved in professional and community organizations. Because she was outgoing and worked well with others, Norma did her fair share of volunteer work. And she wouldn't shy away from taking the lead on committees or events, either. She was a born list maker and was great at creating and sticking to schedules. Throughout her later years, Norma was an active member of the Grand Ladies of National City.
Norma was the kind of person who would readily move into action in order to help others. She was appreciated and respected. She could find value in the opinions of others and was passionate about her own values and beliefs. So it's little wonder that she was active and highly valued by those in her community, serving on committees for her children's school as a volunteer.
Her high moral standards and traditional values served Norma well with her faith. Religion and faith were important to her. She was a member of St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Lemon Grove, California for 46 years. She was well respected because she was such an outgoing individual who sought to help in any manner she could.
A generous and compassionate woman, Norma accomplished much during her lifetime. Though she never set out to gain individual recognition, Norma was recognized and given awards for her many and varied efforts throughout her life. Some of her most prestigious awards included in Art and Sewing in High School.
Not only did Norma enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. She was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, Europe, China, Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and across the United States.
Norma was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Pete, a Canary; Basco, a Dog; Sparky, a Dog and many Cats. Her family was rounded out by Lovie and Bubbie.
Since it was easy for Norma to meet and get to know new people, she quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once she met those new friends, she loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. In retirement, she found new pleasure in helping others, sewing, crocheting, visiting others and having parties. Even in retirement, Norma stayed in touch with her old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. She was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered her.
Norma passed away on March 6, 2012 at Kaiser Hospital in San Diego, California. Norma became ill with a bad cold and a very bad infection which went into double pneumonia.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Sandra and Richard Garske; sons and daughters-in-law Joseph P. & Deborah Castellini Jr. and Phillip C. "Rocky" and Meg Castellini; sisters Bertha Lockwood and Gloria Johnston and brother and sister-in-law Richard and Mary Montijo and 8 grandchildren Grant, Alexis, Joe Robby, Patrick, Lorene, Mike, John and Chelsea.
Visitation will be on Thursday, March 15, 2012 from 1:30 - 4 p.m. at Conrad Lemon Grove Mortuary (7387 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945). Vigil Service will be on Thursday, March 15th at 6 p.m. at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church (8086 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945) Funeral Mass will be on Friday, March 16 at 1 p.m. also at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church. She will be laid to rest besides her husband Joseph and son Anthony.
Norma was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever she said something, she meant it. Norma was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Norma H. Castellini.
Eternal rest grant Norma, O Lord.
May she rest in peace. Amen.
May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
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