Norma J. Hudak

GIRARD - Norma J. Hudak, 91, passed away Tuesday afternoon, May 5, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Norma was born Dec. 11, 1934, in Niles, a daughter of the late Clyde and Mary (Lepo) Baer and was a lifelong area resident.

A devoted homemaker, Norma was the heart of her home and found her greatest joy in caring for her family. She took great pride in her cooking and baking, always making sure no one left her home hungry and that time spent around her table was filled with warmth, laughter, and a sense of togetherness.

She was an enthusiastic and skilled card player who cherished time spent with her card clubs, where her love of poker was well known. Norma also had a deep love for sports and faithfully followed the Cleveland Indians, Cavaliers, Browns and Ohio State Buckeyes. She especially enjoyed March Madness, and those who knew her understood that phone calls during a game were reserved strictly for commercial breaks. An avid reader, she remained sharp, independent, and engaged, carrying a keen awareness and quick wit well into her later years.

Above all, Norma’s life was defined by her unwavering devotion to her family and the quiet, steady way she showed her love each day.

Norma leaves to forever cherish her memory her beloved husband of nearly 75 years, Alec Hudak, whom she married Aug. 18, 1951; her daughter, Jeannine Johnson; her sons, Joe (Rose) Hudak and Alec (Heidi) Hudak; her grandchildren, Jason, David, Katie and Alison; her great-grandchildren, Rusty and C.J.; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

Norma will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

In addition to her parents, Norma was preceded in death by her brother, William “Bill” Baer.

Private services were held for the family at Kinnick Funeral Home in Girard.

Interment took place at Kerr Cemetery in Mineral Ridge.