Norma Jenneth Swenson was born at Hegbert Township, Swift County, on February 8, 1927 to parents Albert and Alaida (Torgerson) Emerson. Norma was baptized as an infant and was confirmed at Artichoke Lutheran Church on September 14, 1941. She attended rural school at Hegbert Township, through the sixth grade. In 1946 Norma married Edwin Nichols at Ortonville. To their marriage two children, Janet Marie and Robert Earl were born. Both children died in early childhood. On November 22, 1956 she was married to William E. Bryan. They farmed in Edison Township for several years until Bill's death in 1971. On April 8, 1972 Norma was married to Olander Swenson. After their marriage they lived in Appleton. Norma then worked at Fingerhut in Benson for several years and at Carlson Doll Factory at Milan. Later Norma worked with the GreenThumb program at Apple Blossom Nursery School and the Appleton Elementary School for several years. Norma was a long-time member of Zion Lutheran Church and was active in the WELCA. She liked to sew, go fishing, and spend time with her family. Norma was called from this life on June 16, 2014. She attained 87 years, 4 months, and 8 days of age. Survivors include: four step-children: Orville (Hilda) Swenson of Appleton, Jeanette (Bill) Bergstad of Appleton, Gary (Ethel) Swenson of Ortonville, and Corrine (Gary) Knockumus of Morris; many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews: Lewellen (Beverly) Hanson, Joan Jones, Janet (Dale) LaRue, Tom (Sandy) Perry, Harold (Jane) Perry, Jeff (Tammy) Perry, Deanna (Fred) Blockland, Eugene Perry, Lois Reuss, Janice Rau, Algean (Doug) Bergstrom, and Robert Johnson; many other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Alaida; her two children: Janet and Robert; husbands William Bryan and Olander Swenson; sisters: Dagney Emerson, Hazel Platow, Georgene Johnson, Virginia Perry; brother, Leonard Emerson. Blessed be the memory of Norma J. Swenson.
