Norma G. (Thompson) Russell

Norma Russell, 93, of Dows, passed away on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at home. A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023, from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM at First Lutheran Church in Dows.   Norma Gayle, daughter of Amos and Lillie (Strum) Thompson, was born on January 8, 1930 on the farm east of Ellsworth. Norma grew up in the Ellsworth area and graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1947.

On August 26, 1949, Norma was united in marriage to Bernard Russell. They made their home on a farm south of Coulter for 15 years before moving south of Dows. Norma and Bernard farmed together for 50 years. She loved being a farm wife.

Norma enjoyed camping, going to the state fair, gardening, and chocolate. After retirement, Norma and Bernard enjoyed traveling. Norma was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved spending time with her family and friends.

Norma was an active member of the First Lutheran Church in Dows.

Norma is survived by her children Craig (Jeanne) Russell of Dows, David (Janice) Russell of Williams, Don Russell of Grapevine, Texas, and Jane (Clay) Plahn of La Salle, Colorado; grandchildren Denise (Chad) Froehlich, Clint (Erin) Russell, Michael Russell, Nathan (Regina) Plahn, Erin Russell, Jeff Plahn, and Mary (Tyler) Murphy; 12 great-grandchildren; sister Elsie Smith; sister-in-law Beverly Thompson; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Amos and Lillie; husband Bernard in 2014; brother Lyle Thompson; and two grandchildren JT Russell and an infant grandson.