Norma Ruth Eigenheer Rechtenbach Thomas

Norma Ruth Eigenheer Rechtenbach Thomas "Grandma T" Norma passed away peacefully early Jan. 15, 2014 after a long, adventurous life followed by quickly declining health. Born in Orient, Adair Co., Iowa on Aug. 31, 1930, she grew up the second of three children, on a farm and, at 5-foot-9, was a star forward on the Richland Township girls basketball team. When she went away to attend accounting school in Omaha, Norma continued to play basketball for the school team and, as an early example of her grit, even completed one game with a broken foot. Upon returning to Iowa, Norma met and married Wayne Rechtenbach, and they had two children, Becky and Jerry, but later divorced. In 1958, Norma and her two small children moved to Denver to pursue employment, where she met and married Royal Thomas. Royal and Norma moved to Salt Lake and had four boys Ken, Jim, Troy (died at birth), and Mike. Throughout her life, Norma was always an independent woman, a tough competitor, and a hard worker with a wonderful sense of humor. She consistently worked multiple jobs, including a paper route, to support her boys. She was very happy when Steve, a son she had given up for adoption, and his family entered her life. Norma loved to watch the Utah Jazz and rarely missed a game. She loved to garden and had an extraordinary green thumb. She could often be found mowing her lawn, weeding her garden, or shoveling her walks. Norma also loved to cook and share her delightful treats, especially her Thanksgiving rolls, Valentine's Day sandwich cookies, and canned jams and sauces. Norma loved her home and to host visitors. She welcomed everyone that came into her home and family without exception. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cressie and Orval; her sister, Cheryl; her brother, Ken; her daughter, Becky; Wayne Rechtenbach; and Royal Thomas. She is survived by her sons Jerry (Teresa), Steve (Sue), Ken (Vickie), Jim (Tonya), and Mike (Sue); seven granddaughters; seven grandsons; eight great-grandchildren; and many dear friends. A viewing will be held Monday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the McDougal Funeral Home (4330 South Redwood Road) and Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Taylorsville Third Ward Chapel (1457 South Atherton Drive). Funeral Services will be held at the Taylorsville Third Ward Chapel, Tuesday at noon. Place of Birth:Orient, IowaPlace of Death:Taylorsville, UtahOccupation:Basketball, gardening, cooking and being with family and friends