It is with great sadness that the family of Norma Stern, of Bluffton, Alberta announce her passing at the Rimbey Hospital and Care Center on Tuesday February 18, 2020.
Norma was born of Emanuel and Maria Bauer on February 11,1933 at Craigmyle, Alberta. In 1935, at the age of 2, the family moved to the Meadow Vale district. Norma grew up on the family farm and attended the Meadow Vale School.
Norma's first job away from home was at the Rimbey Hospital. Norma's loving and caring personality complimented her work at the hospital and allowed her to enjoy the experience while acquiring many lasting acquaintances and friendships. This was also the time she met Norman Stern of Lavesta and they were later married on November 20, 1952. Norma and Norman moved to Red Deer and resided there for several years. The first two of their four children, Ben and Debra, were born during the years in Red Deer. In 1959 they moved from Red Deer to the family farm in the Lavesta district where their children Miles and Colleen were born.
Norma thrived on the farm involving raising her children, milking cows, raising livestock and gardening. Her baking and cooking skills were enjoyed by many relatives and friends as she always welcomed anyone to her kitchen and ensured that they never left hungry.
Along with Norman she took great pride in their quaint country yard and filled it with many trees, flowers, berries and a huge vegetable garden. Norma spent her retirement years continuing with her love for gardening and time with all of her very special grandchildren, family and friends. Who wouldn't want to spend time with such a special , gentle and happy lady.
Away from the farm Norma was engaged regularly in the Zion Lutheran Church, the Lutheran Lady's Aide, the Lutheran Bible Studies and the Children's Bible Camps.
Norma is survived by her children Debra (Rod)Mclean, Miles (Joanne)Stern, Colleen Dickson (John Hatala), daughter- in-law Olga Stern and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and step grandchildren. Also left to mourn is one brother Gilbert, sister- in-laws Irene Cross and Shirley Damiani and many nieces and nephews.
Norma was predeceased by, her husband, Norman, her son Ben, her parents, her father and mother in-law. Norma also she joins numerous brothers, sisters, brother in-laws, sister in-laws and other relatives.
Funeral services were held at the Zion Lutheran Church, Rimbey on Tuesday, February 25, at 2:0 0pm with Pastor Mark Schultz officiating. A fellowship lunch followed immediately after the service with interment following at the Iola Cemetery.
If friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, #202, 5913 - 50 Avenue Red Deer, Alberta T4N 4C4.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.wilsonsfuneralchapel.ca
Wilson's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium