Norman J. Pace

Norman J “Donnie” Pace, 83, of Indianapolis, passed away March 30, 2022. He was born July 27, 1938 in Vincennes, Indiana to the late Norman J Pace and Bernadine Burton Case.

Norman moved to Indianapolis as a child, graduating from Scecina Memorial High School and working at the RCA plant on the East Side, where he met his future bride and love of his life, Mildred. They married at Little Flower Catholic Church on April 14,1962.

Shortly thereafter, Norman joined the United States Air Force and the couple relocated to Idaho, where they remained until Norman completed his service. After receiving an honorable discharge, Norman returned to Indiana where he worked and attended Purdue University, earning top marks and graduating with a degree in electrical engineering.

Norman put his skills to work at Naval Avionics Center, a facility dedicated to the design and build of prototype avionics, where he held several supervisory positions and earned many commendations before retiring in 1997.

Throughout his life, Norman held a deep respect for his community. He was founder and President of the Far Eastside Neighborhood Association and Warren Township Development Association, Land Use chair with Marion County Alliance of Neighborhood Associations, and volunteered to serve on numerous committees. In 2001, the Mayor presented Norman with a brick on the canal, and in 2021, the City-County council honored Norman with a Special Resolution for his dedication and contributions to the City of Indianapolis.

Norman was, above all, a man dedicated to faith and family. No anniversary passed where he did not present his bride with red roses, he coached his daughter’s softball team, sat in the front row at countless dance recitals, attended every band and orchestra performance, and was a fixture at family events. As the oldest of nine children,  Norman knew the beautiful chaos of a big family and was steadfast in his love and loyalty to each and every member.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Mildred J Pace of Indianapolis; daughters, Dawn Jayne (Todd) and Deanna Lawson; grandchildren, Conor Jayne (Kassie), Lindsay Lawson, Haley Jayne, Kaitlyn Jayne, Alyssa Lawson; great-grandchildren, Caleb Jayne, Jackson McKinney, Monroe Mueller; sister, Edith Marie Ferrario; brother, Danny Helms (Linda) and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Earl, Charles, David, and Wayne Pace; and sisters, Frances Henry and Jeanette Ritchie.

Friends and family will gather for a time of visitation on Monday, April 4, 2022 from 4-8PM at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46229. Funeral Mass will be held the following day, Tuesday, April 5th at 10AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church at 7243 East 10th Street Indianapolis, IN 46219. Burial to follow at Washington Park East Cemetery.