Norma Gay (Maurud) Swenson, 81, died on Monday, August 5, 2024 at West River Medical Center, Hettinger with her faithful friend, Marsha, by her side. Private family inurnment will take place at Union Prairie Lutheran Cemetery, rural Scranton.
Norma was born April 29, 1943 to Norman L. and Cecile (Loren) Maurud. Norma grew up as an only child on the family farm first homesteaded by John Maurud. Extended family remained close by, with Norma’s Grandpa John living in a small house on the farm as well as the family of Norma’s aunt Nora Landa, twin to Norma’s father, residing on the farm. Norma often spent time with her cousins, Leonard, Duane, and Jim, as well as with cousins Allen Eldridge from Gascoyne and Janet (Larson) Baker, Ronnie Larson, whose farm was a couple miles south. Norma and Janet, especially, remained lifelong friends.
The Mauruds were one of around eight families who charted and faithfully attended the Union Prairie Lutheran Church, which originally stood where the cemetery is today. The building was moved to the Bowman Museum grounds after its closure. Norma was especially involved in the women’s church group and was always happy to serve for funerals and church gatherings.
Norma spent her early school years at the Whiting School, north of the Shawn Maychrzak farm. Norma attended high school in Scranton, graduating with the class of 1961, after which she received secretarial training in Fargo. Norma then moved to Bismarck, where she made a new friend, Penny. Norma rented a basement apartment from Penny’s parent. During this time she worked as a medical secretary.
Norma married Darrell Swenson on September 28, 1965. The couple moved to her family’s farm. Norma and Darrell divorced, and she remained at the farm, caring for her mother, Cecile, until her mother’s death. Norma remained in close contact with her sisters-in-law until the end of her life.
She was an excellent seamstress, sewing wedding dress and prom dresses. In 1997, she began working for ABLE, Inc where she continued to use her seamstress work. Norma thoroughly enjoyed sharing her time and talents with people with disabilities. She formed a special bond with Halie Maychrzak during her time there. In 2022, Norma retired from ABLE.
Toward the end of her life, Norma had a short stay in the nursing home for recovery. On March 14, 2024 she moved into the West River Horizon Assisted Living where she made many friends. Due to her failing health, she returned for a short stay at the hospital prior to her death.
Norma was a true and faithful friend, and those who knew her were blessed to have her in their lives. Many were lucky enough to be treated with her gift of wonderful homemade candy.
Norma is survived by several cousins; special friend, Halie Maychrzak; and friend, Marsha Nelson. She was preceded in death by her parents; and infant brother, Leslie (1944).
Rest in peace now, beautiful friend. You were dearly appreciated and loved.
Memorials in memory of Norma may be given to ABLE.