Norma Jean (Koch) Barrette

Norma Jean Barrette, age 89, of Cheboygan, Michigan, passed away suddenly at home on June 20, 2026. She was born on May 15, 1937, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Leroy and Thelma (Ferguson) Koch. Norma was raised in Pontiac, where she attended and graduated from Pontiac Central High School. On May 12, 1957, she married William Joseph Barrette, and together they shared 70 years of love and cherished memories.

Norma was the beloved matriarch of her family, a devoted wife, and a loving mother. She maintained strong and lasting bonds with her nieces and nephews and treasured the relationships she shared with her family. Norma enjoyed playing bingo, trying her luck at the slot machines, and a good game of poker. Known for her strong will and natural leadership, she was always organized, involved, and often the one keeping everything on track. Despite facing chronic health challenges late in life, she remained resilient and was grateful for the compassionate care and support provided by her dedicated team of helpers.

Norma is survived by her husband, William Barrette; their Golden Retriever, Duke; her children, Judith (Doug) Ayres and Kenneth Barrette; her grandchildren, Nicole, Hailey, and Shelby Ayres; her sister, Linda (Rick) Rumon; her brother-in-law, Donald (Patty) Barrette; her sister-in-law June Barrette and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Deborah Barrette; her sisters, Harriett (James Flanagan) and MaryAnn (Bill Smith); her brother, Robert (Sylvia) Koch; her brother-in-law, Gerald Barrette; and her sister-in-law, Janet Bosnak.

Honoring her wishes, cremation has taken place. A visitation will be held Friday, July 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM with a service to follow. Burial will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery in August.

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