Ann Benson   Norwell

Nurse And Community

Volunteer

Ann Benson Norwell, 95, of Newtown, died on August 3 in her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Bridgeport on November 7, 1909, and was the daughter of Johanna and Alfred Benson. She was the beloved wife of the late Earl R. Norwell.

Survivors include a daughter, Susan, and a son, John, both of Newtown, and the family of the late Robert Morris, also of Newtown. Other survivors include previous and present neighbors and friends; and an adopted granddaughter, who became part of Ann’s loving and devoted extended family.

Mrs Norwell attended schools in Bridgeport, Naugatuck, and for a brief period in Milo, N.D., where her parents had a wheat farm. Returning to Connecticut she continued her post high school education at Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing and Columbia University in New York City, earning her RN degree.

Prior to marrying and devoting her time to raising a family, she served as obstetrical supervisor at Bridgeport Hospital, and during World War II was a volunteer nurse at the Red Cross Blood Bank. Other nursing positions later in life included school nursing and visiting nurse work in Newtown and Danbury.

Her volunteer nursing activities included Newtown VNA Board membership for many years, VNA thrift shop volunteer, and nurse at VNA Blood Pressure screenings and Well Child Clinics.

As a community volunteer she taught Sunday School at the Newtown Congregational Church and was an active member of its Women’s Fellowship through circle activities. She was also a 50-year member of the Order of Eastern Star with current membership in Azalea Chapter.

Throughout her life she was happiest when helping others and did so each day of her long life. She was most proud of being a nurse and found ways to combine this knowledge with her natural propensity for caring. She shared these gifts abundantly with family, neighbors, and friends. She will be remembered for all her many kindnesses, as well as her optimistic spirit.

Arrangements were handled by Honan Funeral Home and Interment was in Mountain Grove Cemetery, Bridgeport. There were no calling hours.

 Donations may be made in Mrs Norwell’s memory to the Visiting Nurse Association of Newtown, c/o Edmond Town Hall, Newtown CT 06470 or to Newtown Congregational Church, Building Fund, 14 West Street, Newtown CT 06470.

The Newtown Bee        August 12, 2005