Normandale Connections | March 2021

Normandale Connections

MARCH 2021

A CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE DURING COVID-19 GREETINGS FROM PASTOR PAUL Dear People of Normandale Lutheran Church, As we surpass the one year span of our time apart, my heart is full of thanks to God for you! We have remained faithful, wandering the wilderness together, keeping our complaint to a minimum (some days better than others 😊), and staying strong as a community of God’s people, all by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

We have experienced the loss of many brothers and sisters - forty-three to date - and we have grieved together from a distance, gently releasing them to God’s promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

We have maintained safe practices, transforming the ways in which we live, breathe, and move as the body of Christ. God has provided! God’s grace has been sufficient! God’s love continues to grow in us!

Your staff and leadership are now engaged in conversations about opening our congregational life. Using a measured and safe approach, we will begin to gather in person, beginning with the safest options with proper protocol. We are considering all aspects of our church life, taking into consideration Minnesota Department of Health guidelines, the most current COVID-19 data, and the well-being of our people. Our church council president, Lee Newcomer, described our first steps forward in a video sent to the congregation in the March 18 Weekly Teaser email. Please continue to read your email in the coming weeks as we regularly communicate with you regarding the steps we will take.

Thank you for your patience! Thank you for your encouragement for leaders!

Thank you for your generosity! Because of your gifts and God’s grace, we are ready for the next phase of our life together!

Peace and Jesus’ love, Pastor Paul

NORMANDALE LUTHERAN CHURCH

INSIDE...

2 | Ministry Updates 4 | Looking Ahead 5 | NLC in Pictures 6 | Congregational Family Updates 11 | Words of Peace Resources

MINISTRY AREA UPDATES NLC VISION TEAM UPDATE NLC Vision Team continues to meet, developing direction for a three-fold congregational vision for the next five years: 1. Development of the south property, including Outdoor Worship Space, Columbarium, and remodeled play area 2. Addressing systemic racism through congregational learning, partnership, and assessment of community practices; and 3. Strategic development for the future uses of technology. Stay tuned for more in the coming months.

SENDING FORTH MINISTRY Your generosity undergirds our Sending Forth ministry, whereby people from our community seeking church vocational education receive support for their journey. Read this except of a letter from pastoral candidate, Sumner Musolf: “I cannot say enough about the support from my Normandale community and family, specifically through the commitment of the Sending Forth committee.

Your prayers and gifts are nothing short of empowering and sustaining.

As I continue down this path towards what the Holy Spirit has in store for me, I cannot fully articulate the level of gratitude I have for all of you. This gratitude comes forth in the form of humble grace, benevolent peace, and fulfilling mercy on behalf of me and my family. Joyous thanks be to God for each and every one of you.”

CYF UPDATE Summer 2021 is almost here and we are excited to be able to offer safe, in person opportunities for NLC kids and youth! We have a full summer planned with fun programs like VBS, Summer Stretch, Summer Stretch After Dark, and - brand new this summer - Jr. Summer Stretch. Also, get ready for BWCA, Camp Vermilion, and Choir camp.

All summer programming will have COVID-19 protocols in place to keep our kids, youth, and volunteers safe! To register and learn more please visit www.normluth. org/cyf-summer.

WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS! We are a porous community, open to receiving new lives into our body of people. As the Holy Spirit stirs in our midst, others take note, bringing their gifts and their spirits to the mission we share. We welcome with joy and the love of Jesus in our hearts these new members who joined NLC on December 6, 2020.

NEW NORMANDALE SISTERS & BROTHERS IN CHRIST The Fleck family Brittany, Chris, Bridget, Emmett The Singh family Jolene, Michael, Gavin, Grayson, Gabriella The Lew family Brandon, Jolene, Bennett, Cameron

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MINISTRY AREA UPDATES (Continued) CENTER FOR HEALING & WHOLENESS UPDATE The Normandale Center for Healing and Wholeness regularly posts community updates on our Facebook page for older adults and caregivers about local COVID-19 vaccination availability, and links to related resources and supports as they come available. Individuals can sign up on the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector or locate a vaccine clinic through the Vaccine Locator.

MISSION & OUTREACH HAPPENINGS

MN FOODSHARE MONTH | MARCH 1 - APRIL 11 Rally your neighborhood with a food drive, pick up some extra groceries to drop off at church, or donate online to the “Hunger” fund to benefit our local foodshelves (CES & VEAP) any time of year, but especially this month! Let’s make sure every hungry mouth is fed!

We also have information on how to connect your loved one with a virtual volunteer, or sign up to have a gift bag delivered, which are available now via our charity partners at the Edina Rotary and the National Charity League. The bags include cozy fleece gloves, hats, hand-made cards, and other items which can be delivered to a senior you think would appreciate a pick-me-up.

MEALS & MENTAL HEALTH DRIVE | LENT 2021 We’ve all been going through a lot, and so has our Normandale Housing Corporation community, but together, this Lent, we’re providing grocery cards & trauma-informed mental healthcare! Join us in providing these important supports to families in need at normluth.org/give and select the “Normandale Housing” fund. Tune in to Sunday worship to hear NHC stories during the offering!

Hand-made cards For more details check out our Facebook page, sign up for our monthly eNewsletter, or “like” us at https://www.facebook.com/NormandaleCenter/.

Questions? Contact us at 950.929.1698 or at info@ normandalecenter.org.

EVERYMEAL PACK | MID APRIL It’s been so hard to worship apart, but with a redesigned packing warehouse, and COVID-19 precautions taken, here’s your chance to join us in service together, packing meals for students in need! These are opportunities are for everyone, ages 8-108, including daytime packs, Confirmation and High School evening packs, and more, so look for registration details to come!

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LOOKING AHEAD NEW WEBSITE NEWS The New Website Team is pleased to announce that Normandale's new website is nearing completion of phase 1 and will make its debut in early April!

While our current site has served us well since 2011, its dependency on an outdated platform, which has caused numerous disruptions to users in its slow decline, has forced us to focus on this new site.

PALM SUNDAY CELEBRATION | MARCH 28 This Palm Sunday, connect with NLC through online worship and an in-person drive-thru parade!

Worship Online | 9:30 am A Parade of Promise and Passion

What does this mean for NLC? We'll have a website that is designed for the current times: • Mobile friendly design provides better functionality to users on all platforms • Faster page loading and fewer pages providing ease of use • Prominent placement and use of calendars, events, and registrations makes it easier to keep connected to NLC • Updated look & feel reflects NLC's personality

Drive-Thru @ NLC | 11:00 am - 12:00 noon Join the procession of palms at NLC! Pick up your palms and join the drive-thru parade. Wave at your friends while enjoying a treat and a musical surprise. NLC staff will be there to greet you and to distribute holy week worship kits.

HOLY WEEK 2021 | MARCH 28 - APRIL 3 All Roads Point to This!

Plan ahead and join us for online worship all throughout Holy Week.

Palm Sunday 9:30 am (11:00 am drive-thru) A Parade of Promise and Passion Maundy Thursday 7:00 pm. Broken Bread Good Friday 7:00 pm. Broken Body Easter Vigil Saturday 7:44 pm. Watching for Deliverance Easter 9:30 am. Broken Open

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Our hope is that this new site will serve well our members and potential new members alike. Our website address (url) will remain normluth.org, so it should be a seamless transition for all. Look for more information to come in April!

NLC IN PICTURES NLC IN PICTURES Ash Wednesday Drive-Thru Wednesday, February 17, 2021

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CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE US...

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely. And let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.” - Hebrews 12:1 Since our last publication we have said goodbye to sisters and brothers from our community of faith.

They are now in that great cloud of witnesses, cheering us on to persevere through this time and trust in Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. With thanks to God, we gently release them to our loving God in Jesus Christ. Go in peace, dear friends!

ROBERT ALAN LUNKLEY ~ NOVEMBER 5, 2020 Lunkley, Robert Alan, 87, passed away on November 5, 2020. He was born May 20, 1933 in Minneapolis to Elmo and Adelaine Lunkley. He graduated from Patrick Henry High School in 1951. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of 58 years, sons Peter Lunkley and Sonny Nguyen, daughters Laura Velazquez, Kathryn Lunkley, and Linh Nguyen; grandchildren Elizabeth, Brandon, Aurelio, Madeline, Dakotah, Brittany, Savannah, Charlie, Jayden, Keane, Sage and Sala; great-grandchildren Isabelle, Matthew, Blake, Aundray and Briggz; sister-in-law Jean Lunkley, brother and sister-in-law Orlie and Holly Halvorson, nieces, nephews and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Bruce Lunkley, parents-in-law Andrew and Gladyce Holum, brother and sister-in law Robert and Eleanor Holum, niece Wendy Blackwood and nephew Marlon Holum. Bob served in the U.S. Army, was a member of Normandale Lutheran Church, Edina Rotary Club, and spent most of his career in sales at Juster's Men's Clothing Stores. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, camping, fishing, cruises and travels to Europe, Mexico and Japan. He will be greatly missed by all.

ARTHUR E. "ART" MORGAN ~ DECEMBER 25, 2020 Morgan, Arthur, 91, of Bloomington, was born on July 3, 1929 and passed away December 25, 2020. He and his wife, Karen, have been members of Normandale since 2005. Blessed be his memory.

CLAUDIA ROGAT ~ JANUARY 26, 2021 Rogat, Claudia Lynn, 77, of Edina, was called home to God on January 26, 2021. Preceded in death by her husband, Neal. Survived by children Chris, Carla, and Tim (Michele) and her four beloved grandchildren, Brandon, Courtney, Alison, and John.

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RICHARD "DICK" HOMBERGER ~ NOV 2, 2020 Homberger, Richard "Dick" C., 85, passed away on November 2, 2020 after courageously battling Alzheimer's disease and COVID-19. Dick was born to Elmer and Della (Fehlandt) Homberger in Madison, WI and was raised by his mother, Della and older brother, John, in Mazomanie, WI. Dick was a proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Madison and served as a Reserved Commissioned Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. He enjoyed a 35year career at General Mills, retiring in 1996 as Financial Director of Field Operations.

His career at General Mills started in 1959 in Chicago and led him to Minneapolis in the early 1960s where he met his first wife Janice (Bender) Homberger with whom he shared 37 loving years building a family and life in Edina. Following Janice's passing, Dick met Letty Lie in a grief support group. She had also lost her spouse. They were married in 2004 and shared 16 loving years together, blending families and friendships. Always a gentleman, Dick was known for his strong character, values and morals that guided his strong work ethic, his generosity, and his faith. He had a passion for fly fishing, fly tying, world travel, power walks, reading, working outside in the yard and gardening, and his beloved Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. Dick is preceded in death by his first wife Janice, his parents and brother. He is survived by his wife, Letty Lie; sons Jeff (Felicia) and Mike (Karey); grandchildren Sophie, Lilah, Bret, and Charlie. He is also survived by Letty's children Ole (Sarah) CaveLie, Kari (Ben) Dorer, and grandsons Max and Simon. Dick also leaves behind many close friends.

CONGREGATIONAL FAMILY (CONTINUED) DUANE SCHLEY ~ JANUARY 22, 2021 Duane Schley, 92, of Edina, passed away on January 22, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sandra (Gerland); son Stephen (Nichole) and two granddaughters, Paradis and Eden; and son Geoffrey. He was preceded in death by his parents Alex & Helena Schley, & brothers Kermit, LaVerne, and Clarence. Duane was born on the family farm outside Stratford, SD on October 21, 1928. The youngest of 4 boys, he enjoyed an active outdoor life. After graduating from Stratford High School in 1946, Duane attended South Dakota State University where he majored in Electrical Engineering and was a member of the wrestling team and Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC). Later, he continued his education at the University of MN and Stanford. Duane served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Crisis.

His assignment was with depot weapons - waiting long nights in the event a command came to release an atomic missile. Technology was the focus of Duane's career. In 1969, he founded a software and services company that, after rebranding to reflect its focus on serving the legal profession, became Computer Law Systems. Duane sold the business in 2006 and retired. Throughout his life, Duane was active in many sports and taught those around him the love of sport. He skied throughout Europe and the US, founded the Twin Cities Social Tennis Club, and coordinated activities for the Nomad's Golf Group. A big-time sailor, his love for sailing included navigating the Caribbean islands, crewing in the Antigua Races, completing a transatlantic crossing from Bermuda to the Azores, and making the first leg of a voyage through the Northwest Passage. In retirement, Duane and Sandy continued to be active travelers. They enjoyed epic journeys throughout the world, including family reunions in Norway and Germany. Duane was also active in his profession and community with commitments ranging from Cub Scout leader to board member at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church. Additionally, he chaired an immigrant Resettlement Committee and served as president of the Metro Gyro organization. For the last six months, Duane resided at Sunrise Senior Living in Edina where his outgoing nature continued to grow with new friendships. The German language of his childhood resurfaced and Mach’s Gut became his easy-going contribution to conversations. Duane will be remembered as a devoted man of faith; a loving and loved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He was charming, a person everyone enjoyed. Most of all, we cherish and celebrate his gentle soul and sweet demeanor. Auf Wiedersehen Duane/Dad. Wir lieben Dich.

VERNA A. HEMMERSBAUGH ~ DECEMBER 15, 2020 Hemmersbaugh (Elert), Verna A., 98. A beautiful angel gained her wings on December 15, 2020. Born June 4, 1927 in North St. Paul, MN, she was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Lily Elert of North St. Paul, her husband, William Hemmersbaugh, her sister Marcella Carroll of Bemidji, MN and her son-in-law, Douglas Kane of St. Michael, MN. She is survived by her brother, Charles Elert (Barbara) of Tacoma, WA, her brother, Jerry Elert ( Judy) of St. Paul, her daughter Robin Townley of St. Michael, her daughter, Gail Kane, also of St. Michael, 4 grandchildren, Jeffrey Kane (Tera), Corcoran, MN, Joseph Kane (Vanessa), Cambridge, MN, William Kane (Mary), Juneau, AK and Kendra (KC) Wilkens (Reese), St. Johns, FL and 3 great-grandsons Riley, Owen and River Kane as well as many other relatives and friends. Verna and Bill were married March 27, 1951 and spent their early years in North St. Paul. Job transfers for Bill, took them to Mt. Prospect, IL and then Fargo, ND where Robin and Gail completed grade school through high school. Eventually, they moved back to Mt. Prospect then Troy, MI and Columbus, OH. They had just moved back to MN in 1990 when Bill died. Verna continued to live in Eden Prairie until 2019 when she and Robin purchased a home in St. Michael close to Gail and Doug. In spite of careful precautions, Verna was a victim of COVID. She died knowing she was well-loved by family and all who knew her. Although her short-term memory was getting weak, she had developed some great responses that allowed her to "fake" her way through conversations. Robin and Gail enjoyed many afternoons reminiscing with her about their early years and Verna loved teasing them when she could. She will be greatly missed.

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CONGREGATIONAL FAMILY (CONTINUED) BETHEL ANN "BETH" IVERSON ~ NOV 11, 2020 Iverson, Bethel Ann “Beth” was born on January 13, 1926 in Flandreau, SD to Isaac and Elsie Locke.

She graduated from Flandreau High School in 1943 and attended Augustana College in Sioux Falls. She moved to Minneapolis and worked as a receptionist at the Aetna Casualty Company. She met her husband Marlowe, in 1947 and they married in 1948. She and Marlowe first lived in Minneapolis and subsequently in Richfield where they began raising their four children. In 1960 they moved to Edina and were life long residents thereafter. She was involved in many activities for her kids including service as a Girl Scout Leader and Den Mother in Cub Scouts. She also worked as a teacher's aide at Louise Whitbeck Fraser School. A founding member of the Pistachio Singers, she absolutely loved music. She was an active church choir member for many years as well, at Richfield Lutheran Church, then Normandale Lutheran. Beth was a woman of deep faith and always believed in giving back. She served on church council, was in Miriam Circle, was a Stephen Minister and was President of Lutheran Church Women.

She volunteered at Martin Luther Manor, Fairview Southdale Hospital and as a Hospice volunteer. She is survived by her four children and their spouses, Bob (Sandy) Iverson, Tom Iverson, Marilyn (Ron) Hudson and Kathy ( John) Morris, along with eight grandchildren and ten great- grandchildren. Beth is also survived by her siblings Gertrude Felix, Margaret West and Bob Locke. She is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Marlowe Iverson.

JOYCE MCCLELLAND ~ JANUARY 4, 2021 McClelland, Joyce, 76, of Edina, was born in 1944 and passed away January 4, 2021. A member of Normandale since 2015, she served as a Stephen Minister and was active in Women's Bible Study and Second Wednesday and really appreciated her community of friends at church. After surviving stage 3 lung cancer in the early 2000's she died after her second battle with colon cancer with her family by her side.

She felt very lucky to have so many years of life after her first cancer diagnosis and was able to do a lot of traveling, including a trip to Mexico right before the pandemic hit.

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GLORIA PETERSON ~ FEBRUARY 3, 2021 Peterson, Gloria Heller, 92, of Edina, passed away on February 3, 2021. Gloria was born July 31, 1928 in Brooklyn, NY to George and Marguerite Heller. She was raised primarily in Wilmette, Illinois where she graduated from New Trier High School. She graduated from Lawrence University and was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. After college she returned to the Chicago area and worked as an executive secretary. Gloria met her husband, Carl, on a blind date.

They were married in Wilmette in 1953 and lived in Deerfield, IL until 1958 when they moved to Edina with their first two daughters. They would have two more daughters, both born in Minneapolis. They were longtime active members of Normandale Lutheran Church, where Gloria was active on many committees and circles, including the Wedding and Archives committees, and most recently on Miriam circle. She also volunteered regularly in the church office until she “retired” in her late 80s. Gloria was also active in the Edina Women’s club where she served as treasurer. She worked as a secretary for several companies through temporary agencies while raising her family. Gloria lived in her home in Edina from 1958-2014 when she moved into Vernon Terrace. She had many interests and was involved in many activities including traveling, doing crossword puzzles and playing bridge, and was an avid Jeopardy player. For 92, she had amazing computer skills, communicating regularly via email, ordering things for delivery online, and googling anything she needed to know. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Marguerite Heller, husband, Carl Peterson and daughter, Carla Peterson Stephens. She is survived by her brother, George (Betsy) of San Diego, CA, Daughters Ingrid (Larry Ringgenberg) of La Crosse, WI, Amy Peterson of Eden Prairie, Judy Peterson of Minneapolis, and grandchildren Matthew Ringgenberg ( Jolynn) of Salt Lake City, UT, Jessica Ringgenberg (Alex Harris) of Minneapolis, and Kristin Ringgenberg of La Crosse, WI as well as nieces and nephews.

The family of Gloria Peterson wishes to thank all who sent condolences on her recent passing. Her Normandale family was an important part of her life for many years, and your kind words were very much appreciated.

CONGREGATIONAL FAMILY (CONTINUED) LLOYD PEARSON ~ NOVEMBER 13, 2020 JUNE PEARSON ~ NOVEMBER 24, 2021 This past November we lost Dr. Lloyd Erick Pearson (November 13) and his wife June Marie Pearson (November 24). The longtime residents of Edina were married for 63+ years. They met while both attending the University of Minnesota and enjoyed travel, golf, car trips, walks on the beach, evening pontoon rides at the cabin, and sharing time with friends, family, and grandchildren. Lloyd was born in Fish Lake Township, MN on February 20,1933 to Erick and Emma "Frieda" Pearson. He graduated from South HS in 1950, and attended the U of M, earning doctoral and master's degrees in Dental Science. He practiced at the Southdale Medical Building alongside his long-time dedicated staff for 40+ years, serving multiple generations of families; former patients will certainly be familiar with his questions, "May I see your smile?" and "Do you still wear your retainer?" In addition, Dr. Pearson contributed over 70 articles and presentations to the profession and took great pride in mentoring young orthodontists. Lloyd held positions of President of the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), Director of the ABO, President of the MN Society of Orthodontics, and the President of the Midwest Angle Society. Lloyd was a proud member of the Edina Rotary Club for ~57 years, serving as President from 1970-71, and helping initiate the Edina Crime Prevention Fund and spearheading the redesign of the typical school bus seat which added padding on the back in order to minimize facial injuries in accidents. June was born in Minneapolis on March 31, 1937 to Carl Herbert and Olga Olson. She graduated from Roosevelt HS in 1955, and earned her Associate's degree at the U of M. She was an active member of the Woman's Dental Auxiliary providing dental education and supplies for school aged children. She was also a member of the Minneapolis Woman's Club, numerous antique groups, and was an active volunteer for Normandale Lutheran Church. Although Lloyd's first love was his wife June, most would say a close second was golf. Starting in his teens, he was fortunate to play all around the US. Spend enough time with him [golfing], you might have heard some pretty amazing stories about Bobby Jones or Lloyd's 3 hole-in-ones. In the 1960's, Lloyd discovered another passion... his affinity for the classic Lincoln automobile; specifically, the 1939-41 Lincoln Continental. While he enjoyed the competition and precision of both golf and cars, he most valued the friendships made through these activities. Among the car club members, he was "famous" for driving (not trailering) his restored Lincolns to national, regional, and state car shows with June as his copilot and navigator.

The two were inseparable and their devotion to each other was inspirational; they exemplified teamwork with each bringing their own skill set to their marriage. For each of Lloyd's accomplishments, June was quietly behind the scenes, providing organization, attention to detail, support, dedication, and patience. She was well known for celebrating holidays and creating special memories and traditions; her photo albums overflowed with treasured pictures of family and friends. Her compassionate and generous nature was reflected in her frequent question "What can I get for you?" After spending time together, she would often send out copies of her pictures (labeled and dated) and chocolate chip cookies mailed in golf ball boxes. Lloyd and June were long-time and active members of Normandale Lutheran Church, and were a part of the same close knit couples Bible study for over 40 years. They were also lifelong Vikings fans. Skol! Lloyd was preceded in death by his brother Paul and parents. June was preceded in death by her parents. Lloyd and June are survived by daughter Cynthia Conner (Brett Bruininks), daughter Leslie, son Bradley (Maggie) and their grandchildren Justin (Katie), Claire, Paige, and Elise. Lloyd will be remembered for his kind, humble, gentle, and thoughtful nature; June will be remembered for her energy, caring and generous spirit, organization, and ability to create special memories. Both will be greatly missed.

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CONGREGATIONAL FAMILY (CONTINUED) MARY BUCK ~ FEBRUARY 12, 2021 Buck, Mary Virginia (Thorvig), 89, of Edina, lived a long, joyful life dedicated to the people she loved and the things she believed in. Mary's own words summarize her life best: "Things change. I've changed. But the big things that matter have not changed, like faith, family, the things I care about. You all matter to me the most." Mary left this world on February 12, 2021, with family by her side. She was born to Mildred (Peterson) and Oscar Thorvig on November 17, 1931, in Minneapolis. One Sunday morning in 1949, while singing in the choir at Nokomis Lutheran Church, Mary caught the eye of a dashing young man in the pews. On October 7, 1950 (she was "almost 19"), she married that man, Donald Lionel Buck, her adoring husband of 65 years. Education was always very important to Mary. 10 years after marriage interrupted her studies, and with 2 small children and a baby at home, Mary completed her bachelor's degree at the U of M. At 40, she began her 23-year teaching career in the St. Paul public schools, where she pioneered a high school home economics program for young mothers. Unassumingly modern, Mary did all this in addition to the work of steadily caring for her 4 children, 7 grandchildren, and, eventually, an aging Don. Mary was a longtime member of Normandale Lutheran Church and her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Mary had a distinct style. She liked to sit at the piano and play unusual chords. She appreciated the architecture of houses. She even designed the mid-century modern home where the family lived for more than 50 years. Mary loved a beautiful table with a centerpiece, her famous corn dish, and especially the people she loved gathered around.

Whether in their home, or at the family cabin, her food, questions, and care were always present. She made everyone feel welcomed and appreciated and she would want you to know you were on her prayer list. Mary is preceded in death by husband Don, oldest son Steven and his first wife Kathie, and great-granddaughter Emma Jean. Mary is survived by sister Kathryn Thompson; children, Greg (Lisa), David ( Jenny), Brenda (Tim); Steven's wife, Sally; grandchildren, Kim, Chris, Paul, Madeline, Tyler, Riley, and Griffin; and great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Braden, and Jackson.

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ALVIN JOHN CORCORAN ~ NOVEMBER 7, 2020 Corcoran, Alvin John, 86, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2020, with family by his side. He was born September 4, 1934, to Alvin & Evelyn ( Jensen) Corcoran. Al was a 1952 graduate of Roosevelt HS and a proud 1956 graduate of St. Olaf College. Al received his Master's degree from Michigan State, and spent his career teaching chemistry and social studies in the Robbinsdale school district for over 30 years.

Al served as an officer of the US Navy, where he was commissioned at Newport, RI and served in the military 3.5 years, including time overseas in Guam. His hobbies included gardening, hosting parties and decorating for Christmas. He was well known for his holiday parties and outdoor holiday lights display. Al was 1 of 7 children, and the oldest son. He was preceded in death by his parents Alvin & Evelyn Corcoran, his sister Barbara Davidson and his brother Mike Corcoran. He is survived by loving family members including his brothers Pat Corcoran, John Corcoran, Joey Corcoran, and sister Margaret Olson. He was surrounded in life with the love of many nieces and nephews, friends, and neighbors. In 2003, Al received a liver transplant which was an amazing blessing and granted him an extension of life. He was always incredibly grateful to his donor and his family for that gift of life. Al was deeply rooted in his Christian faith throughout his life, teaching Sunday school, confirmation, and leading bible study groups for over 25 years. Until his death, he had clear recollections of the day he was baptized at 5 years old at Lutheran Church of Minnehaha Falls. Al spoke with confidence and vigor about his confidence in life after death with his savior Jesus Christ.

MARY ANN "NIQUIE" SPRANGER ~ FEB 7, 2021 Spranger, Mary Ann "Niquie," 98, of Edina, was born on September 28, 1922 and passed away on February 7, 2021. She died happy and lived a simple life, wanting to be useful to others. She loved being Clayton's wife and Jeff's and Scott's mother. Her activities were swimming, volunteering at church, doing bible study, and singing in the choir. She liked to encourage people and listen to their needs and troubles and also share in their joys.

CONGREGATIONAL FAMILY (CONTINUED) LOIS PETERSON ~ MARCH 5, 2021 Peterson, Lois, 95, passed away March 5, 2021. To know Lois Peterson was to know grace. Her smile-gorgeous, instant, welcoming, and genuine-was offered to all who met her. Her family always heard the same thing from friends, caregivers and even first acquaintances, “She is just so gracious and loving.” Lois was born on October 15, 1925, the only child of Luthard and Ruth Sederstrom. Her life changed when she paused while playing the piano at St. Olaf’s Melby Hall for a Sunday Tea. The beautiful freshman excused herself for a few minutes and when she returned, she was met at the foot of the stairs by a Naval Air Cadet, Edwin Peterson.

She didn’t have a chance; it was the beginning of a love story that lasted 75 years. Her children, Tom and Karen, never heard her raise her voice to them even though they gave her ample opportunities. As small children they heard her calm voice say, “Gentle” when they reached for something precious. Today, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren are brought up with the same loving approach. She was adored by teenagers with her welcoming smile and her willingness to listen without judgment. One of Crookston’s tough kids, a leather jacket, motorcycle-riding teenager with an attitude, was coerced into her church choir. When he graduated later that year, he offered his beloved choir director a ride on his motorcycle as his way of thanking her.

She accepted the ride. She protected those kids as though they were her own. After learning that Karen’s friend broke curfew to meet a boy at the local pool hall, Lois drove downtown in hair curlers with a raincoat over her pink nightgown and escorted her back home. No one at the pool hall challenged her.

Even at the time of her death, she was voluntarily attended by the teenage daughter of her caregiver, who loved Lois as she loved her own family. Lois was a gifted musician. While majoring in piano, she was also first chair violin in the St. Olaf Orchestra.

An illness confined her to bed during her final semester, but she was so determined to graduate on time that she practiced the fingering of her 2-hour performance on her bedsheets. She returned and gave a flawless piano recital. She was the organist for Austin, Albert Lea, and Grundy Center (IA) Lutheran churches. She directed the church choir in Crookston and Wells. Even in her last days of life her hands were directing the choral music playing in her room and she sang those beloved hymns that

were never lost to her, even as her other memories faded. Her graciousness was gilded with grit. A year after Tom’s birth she was stricken with polio. In her 40s, a car accident required several months of intensive care and rehabilitation to recover. In this last decade, osteoporosis caused multiple fractures in her legs and arms. No one heard her complain; her concerns were always about others. True to form, Lois removed her arm cast and used a walker to reach the piano bench at her grandson’s wedding because she knew her playing meant so much to him. Her tenacity extended beyond health issues.

Ed was a store manager for J.C. Penney’s and every 4 years he would receive a call on a Friday with a promotion to a new store that began the following Monday. It was Lois who sold the home, packed the furniture and children, and organized a new home in a new community each time they moved.

Together Ed and Lois eventually opened their own store in Wells, MN. They retired early and spent nearly 2 decades in Sun City, AZ before returning permanently to Minnesota. Lois joins Ed in the arms of God after 2 years of separation by death.

She is survived by her children, Tom (Naomi) Peterson, Karen (Lee) Newcomer, grandchildren, Kara (Len Kortekaas) Peterson, Erika (Dan) Zelna, Ryan (Carla Vassilos) Ford, Chris (Melissa) Ford and Peter Ford. She has 6 grandchildren, Bennett, Theo, Cooper, Elliot, Madeline, and Brooks. She was blessed in her final days by loving angels of mercy, Ann Shaw, Yamali, Luda, Zena and Vera who were her faithful, loving servants.

WENDELL MALIN ~ JANUARY 12, 2021 Malin, Wendell R., 85, of Edina, died peacefully in his sleep January 12, 2021. He was born in Charles City, IA to Clarence and Ethel (Kleen) Malin.

During his lifetime, he worked in the aero-space industry, cardiac support, and clean water. He helped build Light of the Cross Lutheran Church in Garrison, MN and a yeararound retreat of Lake Mille Lacs, enjoyed trips to the BWCA, fishing, snowmobiling with the Bay Lake Sno-Packers, and daily walks. He was preceded in death by his parents and sons, Charles and Bruce. He is survived by his wife, Dorthy; son, Dale (Lori) Malin; 6 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; 5 sisters; daughter-in-law, Patricia Malin; and many other relatives and friends.

NORMANDALE CONNECTIONS // MAR 2021

11

WORDS OF PEACE In the Quiet of the Darkness

Prayer of Good Courage

In the quiet of the darkness Is where the heart and mind are one.

In the quiet of the darkness God comes to each and everyone.

Lord God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown.

Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

In the quiet of the darkness Grief is giv’n a chance to breathe.

In the quiet of the darkness God’s voice, a gift received.

Words are kept away in silence Keeping mind and heart as one.

The cross announces hope for healing, Peace the balm for grief and loss.

-hymn tune & text by David Clarke

RESOURCES | BEING CHURCH If your household is experiencing daily hardship right now, please talk with us! Contact Pastor Rebecca at rgamble@normluth.org or Kati Salmon at 952.977.9355. For specific needs, see items listed below: • Technical Assistance - if you need assistance gaining access to emails, online worship, or any of our virtual events, contact Suzanne Klein, Communications Coordinator, at sklein@ normluth.org or 952.977.9360.

• Online Worship CDs/DVDs for those who are offline - contact Kati Salmon at 952.977.9355.

• Grocery & Prescription Pickup/ Delivery - contact Kati Salmon at 952.977.9355.

• Hymnals/Devotionals - available at the canopy entrance of NLC. To keep up with resources and needs, watch your email for our twice weekly emails or go to normluth.org/content/being-church.

CONNECT WITH US | 952.929.1697 | office@normluth.org | normluth.org | facebook.com/normluth

12 NORMANDALE CONNECTIONS // MAR 2021