Obituary: Norman W. Pettey - Class of 1939

MONONA - Norman W. Pettey, age 83, celebrated his heavenly birthday on Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2004, after a year of slowly declining health. He was at home, surrounded by the family he had lovingly provided for his whole life long. Norman was born on June 24, 1921, in Sun Prairie, the son of Benjamin F. and Ethel F. Pettey. He graduated from Central High School in 1939. Norman proudly served his country for four years during World War II as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard. He was stationed in the South Pacific aboard the USS Van Buren (PF-42). He married Marjorie M. Johnson on Sept. 5, 1947. Together they raised four wonderful children. He made cabinetry for 30 years at the University of Wisconsin Carpenter Shop and retired in 1986. Norman was a proud blood donor (14 gallons!). He was a 57-year member of the Carpenters and Joiners Local 314, and a member of the V.F.W. Post No. 7591 and the American Legion Post No. 429. Norman is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Marjorie; four children, Jon, Susan Pautz, Tom and Karen; four grandchildren, Bethany (Evan) Kerns, Andrew and Matthew Pautz, and Lauren Pettey-Ajango; brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard and Patricia Moe, Thomas and Helen Johnson, and Richard and Barbara Johnson; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a baby brother, David. In the words of Pastor Mary Pharmer of St. Mark's Lutheran Church where Norm was a member for 52 years, his family gives thanks for his life of simplicity and honesty. His family extends their most heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Robert Alt and to all the wonderful staff of HospiceCare, Inc.; especially Marcy, Neil, Kari, Debra, Mary, Chris, Karen, Diane and Pastors Jerry and Bob. According to Norman's wishes, private services will be held. Memorials can be made to the Don and Marilyn Anderson HospiceCare Center, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Fitchburg, WI 53711; or to St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 605 Spruce St., Madison, WI 53715. Normie, Dad and Grandpa ... we miss you and look forward to the day when we will all be together again. Gunderson East Funeral Home 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 6, 2004