OBITUARY | Norma Mieras

Norma Sjaarda Mieras, 88, of Longboat Key and formerly of Saugatuck and Douglas, Mich., died Oct. 19.

Mrs. Mieras is remembered as a free spirit who was younger in attitude than in chronological age. She is an aspiration to all of us on how to live a life of joy and age without fear. She was an artist, model and master floral designer. 

Mrs. Mieras was preceded in death by her husband, Russell; son, Christopher James; and longtime companion Jack Venema. She is survived by daughters Marta Mieras Altizer, of Longboat Key, and Andrea Poest, of Michigan; brother, Dewt Sjaarda, of Michigan; sister Doris Simpson, of Sarasota; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

At Mrs. Mieras' request, there will be no service. Her ashes were spread in the ocean as she requested, so she could always be at the beach, which she loved.

Mrs. Mieras asked that in memory of her, you plant flowers and go out and have a good time to remember her.