Norma L. Ingalls

Norma L. Ingalls, 73, of rural Westby passed away Sunday, August 07, 2011, at the Hillview Health Care Center in LaCrosse, WI. While Norma's health failed in the preceding several months her zest for life was always evident and her courage and faith held her steadfast during this time.

Norma was born on April 16, 1938, to Charles Edward Klayum and Evelyn Olive Nicholson in Merrill, WI. Two sisters, Laverne and Sandra, preceded her in death as infants. In her youth, Norma was raised by her grandmother who she loved dearly. Norma later lived with her mother in Chicago, IL, and enjoyed working at her mother's restaurants.

In 1962 Norma married Lee Warren Ingalls and they resided in Chicago but later moved to the farm in Westby in 1974. While they later divorced Lee and Norma were devoted to one another and spent considerable time with each other on the farm.

Norma enjoyed many simple things in life including canning fruits and vegetables, reading, the arts, including many forms of music, and spending time with her family. Norma made an indelible impression on everyone due to her pleasant demeanor and her welcome and inviting smile.

Norma felt the best years of her life were the years living on the farm with her son's family, including her two grandsons, Ethan and Justin, who were the joy of her life. She was devoted to them and they were blessed to have her loving care and adoration. Norma was a member of St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Chaseburg.

Norma is survived by her children: Rick (Sue) Ingalls of LaCrosse, WI; Melody Ingalls and friend Alan of Chicago, IL; Scott (Linda) Ingalls of Westby, WI; her grandchildren: Sueanne Schwartz, Kelly Humphrey, and Ethan and Justin Ingalls. She was preceded in death by her parents.

The Ingalls family wishes to sincerely thank the Gundersen Lutheran Hospice team for their many months of skilled and dedicated care for Norma. We also wish to thank all those who have supported Norma and our family during this time.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday August 10, 2011 at St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chaseburg with Rev. Steven Oldre officiating. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until service time. The Seland Funeral Home in Coon Valley is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to Bethel Butikk Food Pantry and Thrift Shop in Westby, WI.