Norman G. Wanner, 59, Gladstone, ND, died Friday, January 4, 2008 at St. Joseph’s Hospital & Health Center, Dickinson with his loving and devoted wife Marilyn by his side. Norm’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, January 8, 2008 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Dickinson with Fr. Dennis Schafer as the celebrant and assisted by Deacon Bob Zent. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday at Ladbury Funeral Service. There will be a rosary and vigil at 7 p.m., Monday at Ladbury Funeral Service.
Norman Wanner was born on June 7, 1948 in Dickinson to Peter J. and Rose (Klein) Wanner, the third son of four in the family. Norm was raised on the family farm, attended St. Joseph’s Grade School and graduated from Trinity High School in 1967. Upon graduation he returned to the family farm near Gladstone and farmed with his father.
Norm married Marilyn Kuntz on June 5, 1971 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Dickinson. Norm and Marilyn eventually purchased the family farm from his parents where they fostered their love of farming and ranching. They continued this passion, working side by side throughout 36 years of marriage to build their dream.
On October 31, 1972 Norm and Marilyn welcomed their son Dean Ray into their lives. Norm shared his passion for farming with his only son Dean, and passed on his love of animals and nature to his granddaughter, Megan.
Norm belonged to several organizations: North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, Knights of Columbus Council 6308, past Grand Knight, 4th Degree Assembly 790, Stark County Farmers Union – past president and treasurer, Southwest Grain Advisory Board, Gladstone Fire Department and St. Joseph’s Parish Council. He had received awards from the Stark County Soil Conservation and Farmstead: 1983 Farmstead Award, 1989 ND Centennial Tree Farm Award, and the 1998 Central Stark Soil Conservation District Achievement Award.
Norm generously volunteered his time to various community projects. He also enjoyed hunting, and spending time with his family and precious granddaughter Megan.
Norm is survived by his wife, Marilyn; son Dean (Tracy), and granddaughter, Megan Sue Wanner; three brothers, Don (Jean), Marv (Millie), and Ray (Sharon), all of Dickinson. He was preceded in death by his parents; and an infant grandson, Isaac Dean Wanner on April 5, 2007.
