WERME-Nedra Elaine Ohmstede Werme, of Norwalk, beloved wife of 63 years, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, died peacefully after a long illness at her home surrounded by loved ones. She was 85. She was raised on a farm in Guide Rock, Nebraska; Nedra was the only child of Ella and Eddie ("Baker") Ohmstede. Showing musical gifts as a child, Nedra studied piano and played the organ at the local church when she was as young as 10. Her musical studies continued at Hastings College, the University of Nebraska and the University of Michigan. It was at the latter college, while singing in the University choir, that she met Robert Werme. They were married in 1949 in Hartford, Michigan and continued to share a love of music throughout their lives. After getting her degree in music education from the University of Michigan in 1950, Nedra taught in the Livonia, Michigan public schools before having children. In 1955 the Wermes returned to Robert's home town of Norwalk, where he began to work for his father at the Norwalk Electric Company. While raising four children, Nedra taught in the Norwalk public schools and directed the children's and family choirs at the First Congregational Church on the Green , where she also served as chair of the organ restoration committee. Nedra co-produced and directed the musical "Emmanuel" at the church, which is still remembered today. Nedra was a board member of the Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center, and for many years she was an administrative assistant at the Norwalk Electric Company. She is survived by her loving husband, Bob; four children, sons Robert Werme Jr. and Kim Werme; daughters Dawn Werme Pratson and Arden Donahue; eleven grandchildren; four great grandchildren, and many friends. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 19, 2012, at 4:00 pm, at the First Congregational Church on the Green, at Park and Lewis Streets, Norwalk. Remains will be interred in a private ceremony on the church grounds. Norwalk's Hoyt-Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 5 East Wall Street is honored to assist the Werme Family in their time of need. Please visit www.norwalkfh.com to send a virtual condolence. Memorial donations may be made in her name to a charity of choice.
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