NORMA RICE
Norma Ann Rice, 89, of Midway, Ohio, passed peacefully on Monday, August 13, 2018 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born May 5, 1929 in Cleveland, Ohio, a daughter of the late Louis and Sophia Kunc (Kuntz) Pech.
Norma was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Her father, Louis Pech, and uncle, Fred Pech, organized the first St. Clairsville High School Band which led to her love of music. She was an excellent first chair trumpet player in St. Clairsville High School and went on to study at Hruby Conservatory of Music in Cleveland. Her career included being a member of the Cleveland Women’s Symphony Orchestra and the Cleveland Browns’ professional all-girl marching band.
Norma’s quick smile and “cup is half full” attitude will always be remembered, and important family traditions will always be held dear.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Edward Rice; a daughter, Janie Rice Canei and an infant sister, Henrietta Pech.
Norma is survived by four children, Noreen Purdum, Nancy Rice, Lorrie Rice and Ed Rice; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
A private graveside service was held at Union Cemetery in St. Clairsville, Ohio.
Arrangements entrusted to Toothman Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Cleveland Orchestra, Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106.