Wesley House Family Services

18 hours ago

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our long-time Foster Parents, Norman Stikes.

Norman Stikes was a quiet, nurturing, strong, supportive presence in the foster home he shared with his wife Lori. He selflessly cared for many of the county’s most vulnerable youth without complaint. Since 2012, Norm fostered more than 70 children from Monroe who needed a loving, safe temporary home. He and Lori often took these children in at a moment’s notice. Together they provided them with structure, allowed them to heal, and helped them take their next steps in their journeys. They often cared for special needs children, large sibling groups, and those with fragile medical conditions. Every child that passed through their home was given a respite from the abuse and neglect that led them there. Norm helped all these children create better paths and opportunities for positive life experiences. He did not draw the line with supporting the children; he also supported the parents and modeled positive parenting behaviors demonstrating that it takes a village to create stronger families. Sadly, in December 2021, Norm lost his battle with Covid and passed away. He leaves behind many people who remember him fondly for having lived out a calling. He took action to help others and made a true difference in this world for so many children. Wesley House Family Services is indebted to him for everything he has done for foster youth in Monroe County, and we will deeply miss him.

“He was a realist, a person who saw through the nonsense and got straight to the point with dignity and respect to take care of the kids in his home; he recognized it took a village to help families and he played a central role.” –Tiffany Da Silva WHFS, CBC Director

“Norman was overall a kind man. You can tell he enjoyed his job and got along well with the kids. He was also very funny and could crack a joke in almost any way and is loved by many.”— Foster Youth

“I will always remember Norman’s influence on kids, he was a natural ‘dad’, he lived that role, he was proud of the kids and really made a difference.” – Ben Kemmer FKCS, CEO

“He was a loving and funny foster Dad who made the sad days happier. I will miss him and his home with the chocolate cookies.” -Foster Youth

“Mr. Norm was a great person and would always help me out if I needed it. Anytime I was upset or down he knew how to make me smile. Mr. Norm was and still is a big inspiration for me to become successful. He told me about the adventures he has been on and the places he traveled. I want to be like that one day. He understood me like no one else and truly saw me. I could always rely on him to make me laugh or just talk seriously. He wholeheartedly loved me and my siblings and always wanted us to succeed. He was a really wise man and I wanted him to see all my accomplishments. I hope God is treating him right up there. Just know I will always miss you Mr. Norman.” –foster youth.

“Norm was larger than life, and still somehow the gentle giant that supported so many children in their times of need. I always appreciated his sense of humor, and willingness to help any child who came through their door. He was non-judgmental with the kids and allowed them to just be kids. Wesley House was blessed to have Norm, and he will be sorely missed.”—Megan Burgess, Foster Parent Coordinator

“Norm was a mentor to so many youths that cross his path. He was a beacon of hope to those that loss their way. A strong tower yet a gentle giant that will forever be remembered and never forgotten.”—WHFS Manager Kenneth Williams

“Norm was a strong role model for the many children who entered his home. He treated his foster children, their biological families, and community partners with the utmost respect. His compassion, baking skills, and generosity will be strongly missed.”—WHFS QA Liaison Nicole Moynihan

“I feel immeasurable fortune to be part of the team with Norm that set up the foster homes in Key West. He was always a delight to work with and talk to. I will miss him terribly. Norm changed opportunities for generations to come. “— Bryan Green WHFS, Board President.

“Norm was a compassionate foster parent and a mentor to our children. He was an example to all.”—Aleida Jacobo, WHFS CEO

“He was nice and friendly, as long as I lived with Mr. Norman he always treated me like family and he liked to joke with me and buy me things.”— Foster Youth ... See MoreSee Less

Wesley House Family Services updated their cover photo.

3 days ago

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