Norman E. Protiva

Norman E. Protiva passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, in Charleston, SC surrounded by his loving family. Norm passed away just 6 weeks after his 98th birthday. Norm was born on July 19, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio to Joseph Protiva (deceased) and Faith Hobart (deceased). Norm served in the US Navy from 1946–1948 and retired as a Seaman First Class. Norm graduated as an engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree from Case Institute of Technology in 1952. It was at Case where he met his wife Sally and where he excelled in basketball. One season he was fifth in the nation in assists! He was inducted in Case Western’s Hall of Fame in 2004 for his accomplishments on the hardwoods.

Throughout his life, his loves were family, the Church, and helping others. At church, Norm served as a Deacon, as a Scout Master for Troop 34 (Peachtree Presbyterian Church) and Troop 288 (Oglethorpe Presbyterian Church), and he volunteered for many years in other capacities. One of the most rewarding projects for Norm was his help as the church transited to the use of computers. Inside and outside the church, Norm helped untold numbers of seniors get their first computer, teaching them how to use email and access the internet. Some of you may remember he volunteered as a Little League coach at Murphy Candler Park. He was an avid woodworker during his early retirement years, making 155 pieces of furniture for his personal home, for his beach home and for the homes of Linda and David. Of course, he enlisted Sally’s aid as the finishing expert. Together they created some beautiful pieces. He loved to help others regardless of the projects.

He worked a lengthy business career for 35 years for the same company. Initially he was an aeronautical sales engineer. While with the Airsupply Company / Garrett Corporation, he relocated from Ohio to New York, North Carolina, Georgia and finally California, where he retired as a Corporate VP and General Manager.

Norm is predeceased by his wife Sally Lou (Bell) Protiva, his sister Marjorie (Protiva) Havlik, his brother Russell Havlik, and his sister Bonnie (Protiva) Strine. He is survived by his daughter Linda Stewart (John) and his son David Protiva (Julie); grandsons John Stewart (Gabbi), Michael Stewart (Danielle), Joe Protiva, and Andrew Protiva; great grandsons Noah Stewart, Josiah Stewart, and Judah Stewart.

The family wishes to share a letter sent from Norm sometime after 2000 to Sally, Linda and David. This letter reflects Norm and his strengths better than anything we can write. It reads as follows:

Let’s get serious for a minute. I am not going to live forever!! As a father and husband, I have the responsibility and duty to care for my family in this way. Remember! I believe that I am a body and a spirit.

At my death, my body will return to dust. Therefore, I have offered my body parts to any place or person that can use them. Cremation is my last request.

At my death, my spirit will go to heaven. This is because Jesus is my Lord and Savior. I believe that nothing can separate me from the love of GOD through Jesus Christ.

Remember me as one who was blessed in many ways. My wife is the very best wife that any man could have. Linda is my pride and joy as only a daughter can be. David is a wonderful son who has never failed me in any way. No one could possibly have a wife and two children as close to perfect as my three loved ones are.

The way to peace of mind in this world is twofold.

1. Accept Jesus as your Savior. When you do, His Sprit will come to you and join your spirit, and you will have complete peace of mind for the first time and forever.

2. Do not worry about things over which you have no control. Separate matters into those that you have some control over and those that you do not. Only concern yourself with the things that you have control over.

Remember me as one who had a great life!

Norm

There will be no public funeral service. A Celebration of Life for family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to any church organization. Norm’s favorite church was Peachtree Presbyterian Church in Atlanta (https://PeachtreeChurch.com/give/).