Norma J. (Dull) Melnik

Together Again

Norma Jean Melnik (Dull), 89, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2024. She was born on May 22, 1934, in Guernsey County, Ohio, to Margaret (Selby) Dull and William (Bill) Caygill.

Norma graduated from Barberton High School in 1952 and later from St. Thomas Hospital Medical Center School of Nursing in 1978. She met her husband Walter Robert “Bob” Melnik  across the draftsman’s table working on airships for Goodyear Aerospace. They soon married on November 14, 1953, a union that lasted over 69 wonderful years. Together, they built a life filled with love and family.

Norma worked as a dedicated nurse for over 30 years, touching countless lives with her compassion and care. Her caring spirit extended beyond her professional life; she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

In her later life, Norma was known as an avid knitter and polka dancer. Norma also enjoyed reading, cooking, and appreciated a game of well-played golf. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, on whom she lavished unending affection.

Norma will be remembered for her kind heart, her unwavering support for her family, and her gentle spirit. She is survived by her children, Gary Michael (Kerri) of Louisville, KY, Judith Protacio (Romeo) of New Franklin, and Karen Rhodes of Concord, NC; her grandchildren, Chelsea Graham (Jeremey), Stacy Hicks (Robbie), Nathan Melnik, Matt (Laura) Protacio, Todd (Liz) Protacio, Joe (Erica) Protacio, Erin Crites (Mike), Nicole Melnik, Jacob Melnik, and Catherine Melnik; and 7 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law, Donald Melnik of New Franklin and Dennis (Susan) Melnik of Stow.

In addition to her parents, Norma was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bob, her sister Barbara (Dull) Millisor, her son Doug Melnik, and her granddaughter Katie Rhodes.

The family will hold a memorial service at 1pm on Saturday, July 27th at Silva-Hostetler Funeral Home, 1199 Wooster Rd. W., Barberton. Burial of ashes taking place in Clinton Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Norma Jean Melnik was the bedrock of her family, and the center around whom they gathered time and again over the years. She, and the feeling of home that she embodied, will be dearly missed. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.