Obituary of Norman Klinikowski

Norman G Klinikowski, 80, of State College PA, died early Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Mount Nittany Medical Center after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Born July 9, 1933 in Reading, PA to Bernard Klinikowski and Cecilia (Kubacki) Klinikowski, he is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joan (Genevish) formerly of Shamokin, PA who currently lives in State College. He is also survived by his three children, Norman Klinikowski of Ephrata PA, Steven Klinikowski of Ledyard CT, and David Klinikowski of State College PA and by his nine grandchildren Kristin, Candice, Kimberly, Sarah, Lydia, Olivia, Eric, Thomas, and Michelle. Norman graduated from Reading High School in 1951 and served as a medic in the US Army Rangers from 1953 to 1955. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from Franklin and Marshall College. After graduation, Norman had a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry, which included several business start-ups and technical and management positions with Smith Kline, Wyeth Laboratories and Flow Laboratories. He retired from Gelman Sciences Corporation in 1994 as a Sr. Manager and was well-recognized by his company and industry colleagues. Norman was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1989 and challenged this debilitating disease, which he considered an "inconvenience", for 25 years. During this time, he unselfishly volunteered to advance the understanding of treatment options by participating in drug trials and pioneering surgeries. While battling his illness, Norman appreciated the friendship and compassionate assistance of many local caregivers and Penn State nursing students. He enjoyed attending the Senior Daily Living Center and maintained a positive outlook on life. Visitation for Norman will be held Saturday March 1, 2014 from 10:00 to 12:00 at Koch Funeral Home in State College PA. A Roman Catholic Mass at Our Lady of Victory Roman Catholic Church will be held at 2:00. Burial will be in Boalsburg Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center, Penn Neurological Institute, Pennsylvania Hospital, 330 South 9th Street, Philadelphia PA 19107. http://www.pennmedicine.org/giving/how-to-give and /or The Senior Daily Living Center, 2364 Commercial Blvd, State College, PA 16801; http://www.alsm.org/getting-involved/ways-to-give. Norman had a strong sense of humor and contagioius sense of optimism. He will be deeply missed by his devoted wife, family, and friends. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.