Norman Heaton Willson Jr., age 77, of Miles City passed away on Tuesday, March 2, 2021 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Norman was born in Miles City, MT, grew up in the Pine Hills and lived his entire life in Eastern Montana. He was the 2nd of 5 children born to Norman Willson Sr. and Elydia Marie Roberts Willson. Norm married Carol Bozarth in 1961. One son, Daniel, was born to this union, they later divorced. In 1968 Norm and Laura Jane Huntzicker were united in marriage. They had 5 kids- Cherri Rene, Heidi, Patrick, Wendy and Michael.
Always an outdoorsman; Norm spent his early years playing in the dirt with his siblings, later moving on to running through the sagebrush and pine covered hills where his discoveries led to a life-long passion for western history.
While living in the Rosebud area, Norm began his Masonic affiliation with the Hiram Lodge #52 and achieved membership in the Al Bedoo Shrine. Norm treasured his times promoting the work of the Masons and Shriners and was very proud of the time he spent with this group.
A lifelong rancher- Norm always remembered the skills of those with whom he worked and enjoyed sharing what he had learned from others. He was proud of his ranching skills and enjoyed a day working livestock in a calm and smooth manner. He treasured the times in lambing camps and running his shearing crew through the 1960s. He cherished the lifelong friendships made during these times. In the fall when the harvest came in, he could always be found in a tractor, packing sileage pit.
Never one to purchase what could be crafted at home- His creativity and ingenuity was well known by family and friends. Even though baler twine and black tape were staples of his, he also was known for his skills as a craftsman. This talent was evident in special gifts he made for family members and was shown in his contracting endeavors.
Norm loved attending auctions, many times getting the winning bid on the box of mystery items; he would take his goodies home and add them to his collections where he enjoyed sharing stories of what he had gathered.
Norm and Laura Jane bought the place at Kinsey in 1990 and he continued working with livestock and began a small construction business where he valued the independence of being self-employed. Norm was active and continued working on his place until the time of his death.
He began feeding his family at a young age by bringing home game he had hunted, and he continued as an avid hunter throughout his life. He didn’t let much get in the way of him “taking a drive” to look for deer and he and Laura Jane got an impressive white tail last fall.
Norm’s greatest joy came from his family. Gathering and making memories at his favorite fishing and camping spot on the Boulder River. He worked hard to support and provide for his family while teaching his children skills and values to serve them throughout their lives. He was a beloved grandpa and great-grandpa and treasured all children. His loss is felt deeply.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Laura Jane. Children: Dan (Crystal) Willson of Great Falls, Cherri Rene (Rick) Ottoy and Heidi (Keenan) Zentz of Miles City, Pat (Bobbie) Willson of Houston, Wendy Hope of Sheridan, WY and Mike (Louella) Willson of Dickinson, ND. Grandchildren include: Jackie, Cassie, Brendan, Jeff, Jake, Justin, Danielle, Katie, Cody, Kyleigh, Cade, and Sarah as well as 4 great grandchildren. He is also survived by brothers Jim (Ann) and Dave (Darcy Dahle) and sister’s in law, Joyce and Dolores. Preceding Norm in death are his parents, brothers Jackie (in infancy), Lee and Rick, and sister Barb and brother-in-law Jack.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 11, 2021 at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 12, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the family lot of the Custer County Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
If desired, Norm would have appreciated donations be directed to the Range Riders Museum in Miles City. Out of respect for Norm the family ask that everyone who attends his services wears a mask. Those not wanting to do so may, watch the service on stevensonandsons.com where it will be live streamed, the family appreciates your understanding.
Service Schedule
Visitation
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday March 11, 2021
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday March 12, 2021
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Visitation
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday March 11, 2021
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday March 12, 2021
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
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MARTHA CRANDALL says
my sympathy
Tim & Kris Crews says
We are so sorry to hear of Norm’s passing. Please accept our condolences and let us know if there is anything we can do to help. We haven’t wanted to intrude during this difficult time but know that we are here for you and will help anyway we can.
Kay Davis Berdahl says
Laura Jane and family,
Sorry to see Norm passed. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Brian & Peggy (Quinlan) Certain says
With our sympathy on your great loss.
Ruben and June Opp says
Laura Jane and family,we are so very sorry to hear about Norman’s passing.But do know that our thoughts and prayers are that God will put his loving arms around you as you grieve the loss of your loved one now and in the days ahead.
Ruben and June Opp
Trish Yeager says
Mrs Wilson and family
Im so sorry for the loss of a husband, father and grandfather, May God be with you all .
Tricia Yeager and the kids
Diana Stieg says
So sorry to hear about your loss
Linda and Bill Huntzicker says
Norm and Laura Jane (my sister) raised a large family together. They raised the best kids and a really fun family to be around. Some of my favorite memories come from family time together, especially Christmases when our parents and aunt were ailing. Norm made my two children feel comfortable around animals, including a puppy they gave us. RIP, Norm. Our hugs and prayers to Laura Jane and the rest of the family.
Lynn Griffin says
Laura Jane our thoughts and prayers are with you, we are still in shock from the news. Lynn and Amiee
Patsy George Almy says
Laura Jane
Words totally fail, but prayers for you come from my heart.
Kaye Rainey Taylor says
Laura Jane, I am so sorry for your loss. May God give you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Craig and Jerianne Dunnam says
Laura Jane and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Denise Harvey says
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Take care and remember how many others are here to support you.
KIMBERLY NEIFFER says
UNCLE JIM , AUNT ANNIE, COUSIN JACI , & FAMILIES ,
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. PEACE BE YOU AND FAMILIES,
Kimberly Neuhardt Neiffer,
Larisa Neiffer Watson & Family,
Tanner Neiffer,
LaToya Neiffer Gardner & Family
Jonnie Gilbert Taylor says
To all of Norm’s family,
My condolences on your loss. Prayers for your family at this time.
Debi Willson says
Laura Jane and family,
I was so sorry to hear this sad news. I guess we never know what life is going to throw at us. Norm was a great guy and will be missed by all. I know how proud he was of his family and the happiness you brought him. May God’s grace and the love you all shared bring you peace, now and in the days ahead.
My deepest sympathy, to you all, in this tragic loss.
Rick and Dee Abbott says
Laura Jane and Norm’s family members:
We were deeply saddened to learn of Norm’s accident and passing. Please accept our deepest sympathies. We will miss seeing Norm out baling hay…. caring for the sheep…. and puttering around your home place.
We haven’t wanted to intrude during these difficult days; please don’t hesitate to let us know if you need help! Each of you are in our prayers that God gives each one comfort, peace and solace.
Michael and Myrna Haughian, Ryan, Kyle and Amy says
Laura Jane and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, we are so sorry for your loss.
Diane Welbes says
Thoughts and prayers for you all, during this time of loss.
Marilyn & Jim May says
Laura Jane & Family
We send you all our deepest love and sympathy in your great loss, just so very sorry. May God give you his love and comfort
now and in the days ahead
Love, Jim & Marilyn
Logan Henke says
Laura Jane & Family,
We were so, so sorry to hear of Norm’s passing. We are sending you our deepest sympathies, love, thoughts, & prayers. We are remembering Norm with fond memories in our hearts.
In Sympathy,
Erin & Logan Henke
Hom family says
Laura Jane & family, we are so sorry to hear of your husbands death. We are thinking of you all and you will be in my prayers. Love, Kevin & Susan Hom
Jim & Marj Anderson says
Laura Jane and family
We are holding you all in our thoughts and prayers. May you cherish your memories as they will be some of your greatest treasures. With sympathy in this tragic loss.
Helen Johnsen deines says
Laura Jane and family, I am so sorry to see this….life will never be the same for you, but you will find a way. Much love
Carol Austin says
Laura Jane so sorry to hear of your loss. I wish I was closer so I could come and spend time with you. May God be with you and all prayers and hugs and your family.
Jack & Kris Crocker says
To the Willson, so sorry to here about Norm. Prayers for the family.
Darbie Karch and family says
Laura Jane and family : so sorry for your loss. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Darla (Beyl) Paul says
Willson Family,
I’m sorry to hear of Norm’s passing. Good memories from over the years with many from 4-H, especially Norm waking Wendy up during the fair and fearing I might be the one to get the water dumped on me! Hugs to you all.
LaRae Tangen says
My thoughts and prayers to all of your family during this very difficult time.
Shannon Bryan Holmen says
So sorry. Here’s to good memories.
Norm and Gail Stevrns says
We are so sorry to hear of Norm passing-we will miss him but have great memories
Norm & Gail Stevens
Wes & Kristy Green says
Laura Jane and family … Wes and I are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Patsy & Mike Davis says
Laura Jane and family and all the Willson’s,
So very sorry to hear this sad news, and we send our sincere sympathy and prayers to all of you.
Doug Ellingson says
Laura Jane and Family, Our condolences on your loss of Norman. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Diane and Doug Ellingson
Mike Archdale says
Laura Jane and family
So sorry to hear Norm’s passing. We have lost another individual to share stories and incidents of the history of eastern Montana.
Eric Zimmerman says
Big hugs to the Willson family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Roxie Davis says
Laura Jane and family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jennifer Ferguson Johnson says
I’m so sorry for your loss, You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers
Janet Klein says
Laura Jane and family….my heart aches for all of you as you grieve the loss of Norm. You are all in my thoughts and prayers…Janet Klein
Denise and Larry Sweet says
Norm’s family
We are so sorry and want you all to know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tom and Julie Nordstrom says
Laura Jane and Family,
So, sorry for your loss. Prayers and healing that. God will help you along the way. Take care and find comfort in all of he friends that have come to you with love and caring.
With love Tom and Julie Nordstrom and Family
Karen cheguis says
So sorry for your loss, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!
Karson and Marie Kluver says
Laura Jane and Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. It seems just like yesterday that Lee and I were standing up for you at the Presbyterian Church. Time goes by so quickly. You and Norm raised a wonderful supportive family. It is so great that you get together in the summer. Keep it up.
The Flowers Family says
We are saddened by the loss of Norm. Our hugs, prayers and thoughts are with Laura Jane, Pat, Bobbie, Sarah and all the Willson Family.
Shirley Rolf says
Laura Jane and family, sorry for your loss, remember the good times.
Stu Hillis says
Norm was one of the Good Guys. It saddens me to hear of his passing. Anita and My thoughts and prayers are with you Laura Jane and your family.
Jan Munroe says
I was saddened to hear of Norm’s death. My prayers go out for comfort for you all.
Sandy McFarland Hays says
Laura Jane and Family, So sorry to read about Norm. Sending prayers and condolences your way during this difficult time.
Bill and Sandy Jensen says
Our sincere condolences to all of Norms family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
jerry & Gayle Struck says
Sorry for your lose, we have known Norm for many years.Our condolences and prayers to your family.
Jerry and Gayle Struck
Cathy Byron says
Laura Jane and kids –
I am deeply saddened to learn of Norm’s passing. The memories of all of you at the Rosebud Co. Fairs when all of our kids were involved in 4-H will always be special. Those good times and the many others you’ve shared over the years will prove to be the best comfort as you begin this leg of life’s journey. Each of you kids are a big part of the legacy he leaves. My prayers and comforting thoughts are with each of you.
Doug & Cherie Heser says
Laura Jane, Renee, Heidi, Pat, Wendy & Mike,
We are so sorry to learn of Norm’s death. We have treasured all of the wonderful experiences with your outstanding family. Laura Jane, you can be so proud of the life and family you and Norm created and sustained. You are all in our thoughts and prayers for comfort and warm memories.
Doug & Cherie Heser
Susan L Kohn says
To all the memories of Norm’s family we wish to send you our condolences. You have lost a great person. Keep all of your memories close. RIP Norm.
Howard and Susan
Bobbie Willson says
Norm has been a part of my life for 22 years. Without putting too fine a point on it, that’s more than half my life. Norm and I had a lot in common. Neither one of us says much, we’ve both been known to be grumpy at times, and we have the same smart alec sense of humor.
One summer Norm had hay in the field and it rained a little rain shower once a day for about 3 days straight. On the 4th day Pat said he was going to help Norm fix his rake. Without even thinking about it, I made the comment, “So that it can rain on the other side?” That was the kind of joke Norm found hilarious. Not that Norm ever really laughed out loud, but you could surprise a chuckle out of him every now and then.
For fourteen years, that was how I knew Norm: as my father in law, Pat’s dad and Laura Jane’s husband. A quiet, sometimes grumpy and funny man. Then 8 years ago, Pat and I had a child, Sarah and something magical happened; I got to know Norm as grandpa. Unbeknownst to me in all those previous years was that “grandpa” was Norm’s superpower. In his quiet way he poured love and joy into his grandkids. He cherished them and that legacy never dies, it is carried around in the hearts of each one of them to be passed on to their children. Now when I remember and reflect on Norm, I am blessed to know him with the added title of grandpa, so Rest In Peace Grandpa Norm.
Kolleen (Waldo) Forsyth & Waldo siblings says
Im sad to hear of Norm’s passing. We were childhood neighbors and have great memories of the lively Willson bunch. Sincere sympathies to all of Norm’s family.
David Stanhope says
I am saddened to hear of the loss of my friend, and husband, dad, uncle, and grandfather of our friends, the Willson family.
He will be missed and we send our prayers 🙏 of peace to you all.
David n Debra Stanhope
Carol Plympton says
Our hearts and prayers go out to all of you 🙏 ❤. We are so sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Rocky and Carol
Julie LaBree Livengood says
Laura Jane, Jim & Ann–and all of your family
I am sorry to learn of your loss of Norm.
May many memories be a comfort to you.
Prayers and hugs
Julie
Julie A Krutzfeldt says
Remembering Norm in so many ways but always especially enjoying his quiet, somewhat shy giggle. The most important thing in his life was the devotion he had for his family. Norm was so proud of his children and grandchildren. You brought him great joy…he will always be with you! Norm will be missed by so many. Our deepest sympathy and love to all.
Julie and Butch Krutzfeldt
Terri Schmidt says
Laura Jane and family,
I was so saddened to learn of the passing of Norm. I remember how he was such an important part of Brendan, Jake and Danielle’s lives and in reading his obituary, I see he was an amazing grandfather to all. Please know I am thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Wendy Warren says
Prayers for the entire Willson family. Sending hugs and love to you all.
Kelly Moehr says
So sorry for your loss. Your family made such an impact in your time in Rosebud. You are considered dear childhood friends to this day. Thinking of you. Deepest sympathy.
Kelly (Rose) Moehr
Fred Rose
Deana (Rose) Wilson
Nikki (Rose) Bearchum