Norma Jeanne Rose, 86, passed away in her sleep from natural causes on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. with the funeral service at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 20, 2022 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines with burial following at Resthaven Cemetery.
Norma was born August 10, 1935 to Gilford L. Leighton and Fern E. (Bruegman) Leighton in Ord, Nebraska. She graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Norma married Howard Rose on October 20, 1968 and they lived on the East side of Des Moines for over 50 years.
Norma was a tremendously positive person who enjoyed life and a variety of life experiences. She loved to travel and explore new places, always taking time to pick up a souvenir or two along the way, which she collected. Norma loved taking these trips with friends, family and Howard.
“Jeanne” as her friends called her was always an avid athlete enjoying all sports both playing and watching. She was a very accomplished softball and basketball player and traveled all over the Midwest competing, after high school, in women’s leagues. Norma was an excellent bowler competing in Des Moines Leagues for over 40 years and she served as the President and Secretary of the Iowa Women’s Bowling Association. She was voted into their Hall of Fame in the early 2000’s. She will be remembered for her wonderful heartfelt hugs at family gatherings and her love for her dogs. Norma was a wonderful wife, sister, aunt and caring friend. She will be missed.
Norma is survived by her brother, Jack Leighton of Colorado and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Howard.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Westminster Presbyterian Church.
