In Remembrance

Norma Ness, 86, of Duluth, MN passed away peacefully Friday, March 13, 2020 at Solvay Hospice House in Duluth, MN. She was born February 13, 1934 in Mauston, Wisconsin to Oscar and Gertrude (Nelson) Ritland.

She is preceded in death by her parents; sister Laura Tverberg, brothers Gaylord and Elmer; husband Dr. John H. Ness; and son Joel R. Ness.

Norma is survived by; her children Dave (Dung) Duong, Kyle (Karen) Ness, Leigh Ann (Paul) Viche, daughter-in-law Jennifer Ness; grandchildren Gian Chi (Jen) Duong, My Linh (Derrick) Burnsed, Kaleigh (Robert Fensterman) Viche-Fensterman; Abbey, Andy, and Connor Ness; great-grandchildren Kyra Burnsed, Kai Duong, and Jakob Duong; many nieces and nephews; extended family and friends; thousands of former students she considered her ‘school kids’.

Norma grew up on the family farm in Elroy, WI and developed her love of teaching in a nearby one-room schoolhouse. She graduated from St. Olaf College in 1955 with a degree in Home Economics and over the years shared many stories of her “life on the hill”. Norma’s passion for foods led her to teach Home Economics in Northfield, MN; Waverly, IA; and Woodland Junior High School in Duluth, where she taught for over 25 years. After retiring, she spent summers at her cabin on Lake Minnesuing in northwest Wisconsin, doting endlessly on her grandkids. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many. Her kindness, caring heart, and boundless energy, made her the ultimate hostess, filling her friends and families hearts and bellies with love.

A family service will be held at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepard on March 21st . Memorials preferred to The Alzheimer’s Association 4960 Miller Trunk Highway Suite #700, Hermantown, MN 55811