Norma Vondett Scharlow was born August 24th, 1939, in Sears, Michigan, to Arthur and LayOla (Barnes) Holmes. She passed away on September 22nd, 2026, with her children by her side. Norma graduated from Reed City High School in 1957. 

Norma retired from Ferris State College, where she worked in Media Distribution. During her time there, she became very close with her co-workers and the students. Prior to her employment at Ferris, she worked at Ferrell Gas (Norgas) for more than 25 years. 

For the last three years of her life she resided at the Reed City Fields, where she became connected with her caregivers and other residents. The family is grateful for the care that staff provided her. 

Norma married Jack Scharlow on July 18th, 1957 and together they raised three children who survive. Daughter Pat Reinert (Scott); son David Scharlow (Shelly) and Kris Griffin (Dave). 

Norma leaves behind a family who will miss her deeply: grandchildren Monique Montgomery and Jason Montgomery (Cara), Zack Griffin (April), Julianne Jones (Andre), and Ashleigh Scharlow; great-grandchildren Caleb, Ryan, and Lilli Montgomery, Kendrick and Jayda Jones, and Mairyn Griffin; nieces and nephews Angie Hamilton (Paul), Brad Phelps (Carol), Jim Bittner (Diane), and Sue Bittner; brother-in-law Herb Phelps; and her closest cousins, Dale Barnes and Dee Stoepker (David). 

Along with her husband, Jack, and her parents, Norma was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Julie (Holmes) Phelps; her in-laws, William and Eliese Scharlow; her Aunt Nina and Uncle Dorman Barnes, and her precious grandchildren, Katie and David Scharlow II. 

Norma loved family gatherings and spending time in the kitchen cooking and baking. Many cherished hours were spent at Grandma Holmes’ house for Sunday get-togethers and holidays, as well as canning and baking. These times remain treasured memories for her family. Norma was often the mediator during family games of Euchre and Pedro, which could sometimes get a little out of hand, especially when the men in the family were involved. 

Norma relied heavily on her faith throughout her life, especially as she faced several illnesses and the heartbreaking losses of her parents, sister, and two of her very young grandchildren. She was involved in several churches throughout the years, and her faith remained an important part of her life. 

Her love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was immeasurable. She also loved her in-laws as though they were her own family. Norma welcomed Pat, Dave, and Kris’s friends into her home and always made an effort to prepare everyone’s favorite foods. Her home was a place where family and friends felt welcomed, loved, and cared for. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on September 29th, 2026, at the Reed City Church of the Nazarene 5300 S. 220th Avenue Reed City, MI 49677. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am.