Norma T. Vigar

Norma T. Vigar, 96, long time resident of Iowa Place, Staten Island, died on Friday July 24 in Clifton Park, NY, following a long illness.

Born in Staten Island on February 9, 1930, Norma was the daughter of Jacob and Adelma Tolnes. Growing up in Sunnyside, she developed a life-long love of reading and piano. Childhood vacations gave her a taste for travel. She loved warm weather and beach trips to Barnegat Light, NJ, where she would later vacation yearly with her children and grandchildren. She was always proud of her home on Staten Island, and of her Norwegian heritage.

In September 1954, she married Robert Vigar, her husband for the next 69 years. They were active members of Zion Lutheran Church in Willowbrook, and raised 3 daughters who would bring them nine grandchildren. Norma worked in the office of Mobil Oil in Manhattan, and later at the NYC Board of Education. She loved music, and couldn’t resist singing along, even when she didn’t know the words. She was a very competitive boardgame and card game player. Most of all, she loved time shared with family and friends, and was happiest when surrounded by her grandchildren.

Norma is predeceased by her husband, Robert D. Vigar, her sister Joan Tonnessen, and her brother Jack Tolnes. She is survived by daughters Claire (David) Jakubowski, Jill (Mark) Bechard, and Jane Bifulco; grandchildren Daniel, Justin (Kaitlyn), and Robert Jakubowski; Luc, Mathieu (Stefanie), and Haakon Bechard; Jamie, Kari, and Christian Bifulco; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends who came to know and love her throughout her life. Special thanks go to Judson Meadows Assisted Living, Schuyler Ridge Residential Healthcare, and Community Hospice for keeping Norma healthier, happier, and more comfortable during her final years.

Calling hours at the Harmon Funeral Home, 571 Forest Ave., Staten Island on Friday 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM. Funeral will begin on Saturday 8:30 AM at Harmon Funeral Home, followed by services at 9:30 AM at Zion Lutheran Church, 505 Watchogue Rd, Staten Island.