Norma Jean Johnson (Knutson)

Norma Jean Johnson (Knutson) passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at the age of 92.

Norma was born in Ridgeland, WI, on January 22nd, 1933. She was the 8th of 9 children born to John and Clara Knutson (Gravermoen).

She went to school in Ridgeland until the 10th grade. She really loved school, but thought she should contribute to the household income, so at the age of 16 she got a job as a waitress in Menomonie.

By age 18 she was a waitress at a restaurant in Ridgeland, WI, which was owned by Verna and Lloyd Johnson. It was there that she met their son, Eric, who turned out to be the love of her life! Norma and Eric were united in marriage on October 26th, 1952. They had 3 children: Daughters Denita and Vicki, and a son, Eric. They eventually settled in St. Paul Park. Norma worked as an Avon Lady, and for many years worked for Servomation, a food service company, until her retirement.

She enjoyed cooking and baking, crossword puzzles, going to the cabin, traveling – and mostly spending time with her husband, children, family and friends. She loved being a grandma to her “favorite grandson” Travis. When she and Eric were both retired, they went on many cruises and trips to Norway, Sweden and Germany.

Norma is preceded in death by her loving husband of 52 years, Eric; daughter Denita Stein; parents John and Clara (Gravermoen); brothers: Kenneth, Gerhardt, Ervin, Richard and Gerald Knutson; and sisters: Josie Ebling, Hazel Hartung and Irene Smestuen.

She is survived by her daughter Vicki (Greg) Ahlbom; son Eric III (Jocelyn) Johnson; Son-in-law Mike Stein; grandson Travis (Angie) Ahlbom; plus many loving nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Norma may have been a petite in size, but she had the biggest heart. Besides being The Best Mom Ever, she was truly a caring soul who always put others before herself. She and Eric had a marriage filled with love and laughter, and we are comforted to know she is now back in his arms. She will be deeply missed but will be forever in our hearts.

Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM, Monday, June 30, 2025, at Newport Lutheran Church, 900 15th St, Newport, MN 55055. Following the service, interment will take place at Newport Cemetery, Newport, MN. All are invited to a luncheon at the church after the interment.