Norma Alice Schillinger

Norma Alice Schillinger (née Lopez), age 100, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2025, at Lincoln Meadows in Parker, Colorado, three weeks shy of her 101st birthday.

Born on March 13, 1924, in Bayonne, New Jersey, she lived a long and fulfilling life marked by dedication to her family and career.

Norma's career began as a bilingual interpreter at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City and later as a bilingual secretary for a dental export company in Rockefeller Center, New York City. Her linguistic skills and professionalism allowed her to connect with people from all walks of life, making her an invaluable asset in her field.

She married Frederick Schillinger. July 9, 1946, and when asked why she waited four years to have children-Gary and John-she said she wanted to enjoy her married life and travel.

Once the boys left home, she continued as a secretary at Seton Hall College until she and Fred retired and followed their sons to Colorado to be in close proximity to their emerging family.

Beyond her career, Norma found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid reader. There was always a book on her side table and word puzzles near her readers on the kitchen table. She loved attending her gardening club while living in Centennial and going on excursions with them. One of her many pleasures was going to the family cabin in Grand Lake and enjoying the fresh mountain air with family and friends.

Norma enjoyed her occasional rum and cokes at happy hour and the family often encouraged her to make her delicious rice and beans, Puerto Rican style, something she learned from her mother Delia.

She spent her last decade of her life at Lincoln Meadows retirement community where she was adored by the staff and caretakers. Her biggest complaint was that her knees hurt and then she would laugh. She had many visitors and was present for all the family celebrations including her 100th birthday party with a Frank Sinatra impersonator.

Norma was known for her kindness, warmth and ability to bring harmony to those around her. She had a tremendous capacity for gratitude, something we often attributed her longevity too.

Norma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fredrick Schillinger; her son, John Schillinger; and her brother, Charlie Lopez and everyone from her generation; the joy and sorrows of a long life.

Her legacy lives on richly in the hearts of the numerous family members who cherish her in life and beyond: Son and daughter-in-law, Gary Schillinger (Debi); daughter-in-law Karolyn Schillinger (John); granddaughter Alise Heim; grandsons Evan Schillinger; Christopher Schillinger (Gina); Cory Schillinger (Rosie); Ryan Schillinger (Rebecca); Dustin Price; Jerry Price (Courtney). She also leaves behind great-grandchildren Everly & Reynolds Schillinger; Deegan & Taber Heim and Brinlee & Beckam Price. Plus, nieces and nephews; Lisa Lopez; Charles Lopez (Laurel); Sue VanGelder (Joe); Lori Mistretta (Matt); Glenn Kincaid (Lisa) and numerous great nephews and niece.

Norma’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and quiet strength. She was at the center of the family and now lives at the center of our hearts. Her memory will be cherished by those who knew her. May she rest in peace.

Come help us celebrate her life at Horan & McConaty, 5303 E County Line Road: Centennial, CO on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 4:00pm.