Norma M. Bailes

Norma M. Bailes, 85, of Galien, Michigan passed away Monday, October 12, 2015 at Cartel Inns in Saint Joseph, Michigan. Norma was born August 11, 1930 to Elizabeth and Whitworth Spencer in Newcastle upon the Tyne, U.K. During WWII Norma and her sister were evacuated after the bombing of Newcastle. At the young age of 16 Norma met her future husband, Arthur Bailes, at the local youth club and was later married to him for sixty-four years. She studied at Rutherford College, Newcastle on the Tyne. Norma and her husband moved to Austria for many years, where she worked with the British Foreign Office while living in Graz. She emigrated to the United States in the late 1970’s, and was employed as a property supervisor looking after low income elderly clients. Norma retired to Michigan and entered into a life of home improvement projects, continually refurbishing her 19th century rundown farmhouse.  She also devoted her time to helping others, especially children and the elderly. She enjoyed reading to the children at the local school. Norma was a vivacious and happy person who loved her family, helping others, parties, dancing and music. Norma greatly enjoyed traveling the world with her husband and children, and cherished her family who visited the family home often throughout the years. She was a loving mother, and a doting grandmother and aunt. Norma was loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed by her family. Norma is survived by her husband, Arthur; children, Martin, Hilary and Adrian; grandchildren, Max, Alex and Margo; and nieces and nephew, Jane, Sarah, Nicola, Amanda and Simon. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Maureen and Jeffrey. A private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Swem Chapel and Cremation Services, Buchanan, MI. To sign Norma’s guest book or leave a condolence message online please visit www.swemchapel.com.