Norman Eugene Kolenda

Norman Eugene Kolenda, age 83. Born on January 6, 1937 and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends, on February 17, 2020. Norm is survived by his loving family, his sons, David (Greta) Kolenda, Kevin (Stacey) Kolenda, Michael (Jessica) Kolenda, grandchildren Katie, Amie, Victoria, Josh, Mary, Nathan, Owen and Skylar, and great granddaughter, Charlotte Ray. Norm is also survived by his siblings Don Kolenda and Glory (John) Colon. He will be missed by his nephews Donny, Mark and Todd, and the rest of his family.

Many would say that Norm gave a lot to the game of hockey, but he would say the game of hockey gave a lot to him.

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Many people knew Norm through his many hockey endeavors, but he was much more than that. Norm was a man of faith; the thing that sticks out about his faith is the way that he lived his life. They say that the true way to show your faith is by example. Well, this man was the epitome of that! Never did he look down on people; he always treated everyone equal. When he was hurting, sick or down, you would never know it because he was always looking out for everyone else’s best interest. He lived it, alright! He was the ultimate good and faithful servant of the Lord.

Norm’s life will be celebrated on Friday, February 21 from 4-8 PM at Reyers North Valley Chapel. A Memorial Mass will be on Saturday, February 22 at 11 AM at St. Alphonsus Parish, 224 Carrier St. NE in Grand Rapids. The family will greet guests an hour prior to the Memorial Mass at church.

After the Memorial Mass, Norm’s family invites you to continue celebrating his life together at Eastern Avenue Hall, 506 Eastern Ave NE, in Grand Rapids, from 1-4 PM on the main floor.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Rapids Griffins Youth Foundation, 130 W. Fulton St, Suite 111 in Grand Rapids.