Norene Elaine Lewis

Norene Elaine Lewis, of Vanderbilt, MI, died at home on March 15, 2019, of ovarian cancer. She continued to grow in strength of spirit and in her ability to give and receive love until her last days.

Norene was born (November 26, 1940) and raised in Detroit, MI, (Redford High School, 1959) the oldest child of Roy and Virginia Flones. Throughout her life, "Nor" was devoted to her close-knit family and welcomed new members, young and old, into the fold with open arms. The dear loved ones that mourn Norene's passing include children Randall (Jodi) Lewis, Gary Lewis, and Jennifer Lewis; sisters and best friends, Janet Wilkie and Carol (Daniel) Iacco; brothers Gary (Pamela) Flones and Ronald (Sandra) Flones; her beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; plus flocks of family friends and friends of family.

With a steadfast nature and tender heart, Norene also served other families' loved ones in ways big and small. This included her work in skilled nursing facilities in both Farmington and Howell; and fifteen years as a school bus aide and then school bus driver of children with special needs for Livingston Educational Service Agency. Retiring in 2006, she moved north, where she was delighted by the birds, bunnies and Black-eyed Susans in her yard; looked forward to sleepovers and cookie-making with her grandkids; enjoyed shopping trips to Petoskey with her sister and other excursions with - or to visit - her family and friends around the Michigan mitten that she so loved.

Norene lived modestly and gave of herself generously. A woman of few words and many actions, Nor's quiet power was her decision to always show up and follow through. (Ne'er a dear one's ball game, recital or celebration she wouldn't attend if possible.) "Grammy Nor" could be as patient and playful as she was prompt and practical. Her simple joys included pussy willows, lemony desserts, and sending out sweet birthday cards through the mail. She embodied her family's love of tradition, especially at Christmastime; relished a good old-fashioned summer barbecue; and ever rejoiced in the anticipation of a birth and the arrival of spring.

Her children would like to thank the staff of Munson Healthcare Hospice of Grayling for their guidance and support along their mother's final journey.

Private family services will be held.