Norma Jean Manke

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Norma Jean Manke, age 80 of Cottage Grove, passed away March 31, 2020.

Because of Norma’s love for beautiful summer weather and a good picnic, a Celebration of her life, a “Norma-Bration” will be 11 AM, Tuesday, July 21, 2020 at Cottage Grove Cemetery, 10999 70th Street South, Cottage Grove, MN, 55016.

Norma Jean Fritz was born April 6, 1939 in Clear Lake, South Dakota to Edward and Margaret (Olson) Fritz.  She met Carl Emil Manke while she was working at the White House Inn near Cottage Grove and they were later married on June 15, 1957 at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church near Cottage Grove.  She was the heart and soul of the family because of her desire to take care of people.  Norma started helping Carl at the Cottage Grove Cemetery in the early 1960’s and continued to operate the upkeep of the cemetery after Carl passed away in 2015.

Norma enjoyed putting information together for the family tree, taking care of her birds, gardening, reading, cooking and fixing things.  She also enjoyed quilting and crafting.  Norma had a great sense of humor and loved spending time with her family and visiting with people.

She was a member and served as president of the local T.O.P.S (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) for 40 year and was recognized for her perfect attendance.  She recently was honored as a member of K.O.P.S. (Keep Off Pounds Sensibly).  She was also a longtime member of the Minnesota Cemetery Association.

Norma is survived by son, Carl; daughters, Lynn (Leon) Langenfeld and Keri (Billy) Johanson; 9 grandchildren, Amie, Ashley, Alex, Samantha, Deven, Alisha, David, Tricia and Blake; and 9 great-grandchildren, Elijah, Zachary, Xander, Wyatt, Dylan, Leland, Mason, Kellen and Aurelia; siblings Ralph, Judy, Richard (Kathy), Sally (Cliff), Roger (Karen) and Rodney.  She is preceded in death by husband Carl of 57 years; four children, Tami Manke, Lori Keller, Paul and Alan Manke and nephew Michael Boeseneilers.