Norma Effertz, 78, Velva, died Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022 upon arrival at a Minot hospital.
Norma Dee was born on Sept. 1, 1944, in Lakota, ND to Willie and Julia (Haugen) Bymers. She was raised on a small dairy farm and graduated from Crary High School in 1962 and from North Dakota State University in 1966 with a home economics education degree.
Norma married Jerry Effertz on June 4, 1966 at the United Lutheran Church in Brocket, ND. They were the proud parents of three children: Maria, Lisa, and Kayla.
Norma was employed by Singer Sewing Company, the North Dakota Dairy Council, and as a nutritionist for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program. In addition to her employment, Norma was a 4-H Leader, member of the NDSU Consultation Board, the State Farm Service Agency (FSA) Board, and served as the secretary and treasurer for the ND Limousin Cattle Association. She was also a board member for the Heartland Limousin Association and member of the North American Limousin Association. Norma received the North Dakota Soil Conservation Achievement Award in 1981.
Norma was a member of Oak Valley Lutheran Church in Velva, where she served as the President of the Women’s Group, was a Sunday School teacher, and was active in Bible studies.
Norma was firmly grounded in her faith and especially enjoyed reading and the company of friends at Reader’s Forum and her Book Club. Norma’s priority in life was making people feel welcome, accepted and loved. She would feed you at her table, share a glass of wine or embroider a message to make you feel important and special. Norma loved an adventure on horseback and big belly laughs with her trail riding or cattle friends. She and Jerry were blessed beyond measure to travel to multiple countries exploring cattle ranches and meeting new friends.
Norma was preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Lisa (1981, Age 9).
She is survived by her husband, Jerry; children, Maria Effertz and Kayla (Craig) Kleven; grandchildren, Wyatt and Elizabeth Hanson; step-grandchildren, Paisley and Garrett Kleven; sister, Edith Lorenz and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitation was Friday, Nov. 25 and a Celebration of Life was held Saturday, Nov. 26, both in Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva.
Memorials are preferred to the Oak Valley Music Ministry, Souris Valley Care Center and Assisted Living or the Velva Ambulance.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com.