Norma Nicholas

COURTESY NOTICE

Ollie “Norma” Nicholas, known to everyone who knew and loved her as Norma, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas, following a courageous battle with cancer. She graduated from Caldwell High School in 1955.

Norma leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her loving partner, Gene Razook, her daughter, Leigh Ann Knutson,

and son-in-law, Kevin Knutson; her grandchildren, Justin Bobrovicz, Natasha DeMaio, Jordan Starbird, and Nick Starbird; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Norma was the fourth oldest of ten children born to Oakla and Ollie Leighty. She was

preceded in death by her parents and three sisters, Rosemary, Ramona, and Neva. She

is survived by her siblings Stephen Leighty, Betty Walker, Esther Briggs, Sparks Leighty,

Jim Leighty, and Tim Leighty.

Norma also had extended family in Gene Razook’s daughters, Laura Capps and Janel

Razook, Laura’s husband David Capps and daughters Jillian, Ashton and Dr Kaylen

Capps. They all played an important role in Norma’s life. Especially caring for her the

past seven+ years.

Norma was a dedicated and hardworking woman who held several business

administration positions throughout Wichita, Kansas, continuing to work well into her

80s. She enjoyed traveling to various parts of the country and had a lifelong love of

reading. A good book was never far from reach, and once she finished one from cover

to cover, she was always ready to begin another.

Family was an important part of Norma’s life. She loved attending her grandchildren’s

sporting events and dance recitals, proudly supporting them in the activities they

enjoyed. Christmas was especially dear to her, as she delighted in entertaining family

and friends with wonderful home-cooked meals. She had a special gift for making the

holidays memorable, from her beautifully wrapped presents to her homemade candy,

including fudge, divinity, and toffee. These traditions and thoughtful touches were

among the many ways she showed her love for those around her.

One of Norma’s most unforgettable qualities was her loud, hearty laugh. It was

contagious, and before long, everyone around her would be laughing right along with

her. Her warmth, humor, and spirited personality brought joy to those fortunate enough

to know her.

Norma’s life was filled with hard work, family, laughter, and the simple pleasures that

became lasting memories for those she loved. Though she will be deeply missed, the

traditions she created, the laughter she shared, and the love she gave will live on in the

hearts of her family and friends.

Cremation has taken place in accordance with Norma’s wishes. She requested that no

formal service be held; however, a celebration of life will take place in the near future.

Norma will be forever loved, fondly remembered, and deeply missed.