Norman L. Onstad

Norman Leroy Onstad 92, passed away February 9^th 2018 at home in Lewistown Montana with some of his family by his side. He called New London Minnesota home for more than 40 years. He did not leave New London until he had no memory of home.  Norman was born January
4th 1926 to Alexander and Hilda (Warass) Turner in Hallock MN.  In 1928 Hilda was admitted to Fergus Falls hospital. Alexander was unable to care for all his children, he "borrowed" the 5 youngest to friends and neighbors. Norman went to live with Andrew and Della Onstad. Soon after, Della was also admitted to the Fergus Falls Hospital, Norman was then raised by Andrew's in laws Muns Ronhovde and 3 of his daughters, he stayed there graduating from Barrett High School in 1943. He then joined the US Navy. Following his discharge, he moved to Benson Minnesota where he met, then married Gerda Thedora Olson in 1947.  Norman enlisted in 1948 in the US Air Force, retiring in 1965.  Norman was a Veteran with just over 20 years. He was in many places during his years of service, the South Pacific, Pakistan, Alaska,
Texas, New York, Wisconsin and Nevada.

They had 9 children and lived in several states while Norman served his country. In 1966 the family settled in New London. Norman worked at
the State hospital for more than 20 years, he owned and ran Onstad's Auto and worked various jobs in the area.  He was great at fixing things and was always willing to lend a hand.  He took perfect care of his lawn and home.  He was a terrific and proud grandfather, many of them grew up iservice and coffee Forumn the area and spent many hours on Birch Street.

Norman was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church, he especially enjoyed the music at the celebration service and the Coffee Forum.
He was a lifetime member of the VFW, active in the Spicer American Legion marching in many parades and active in the color guard. Norman enjoyed fishing, shaking dice and coffee with family and friends. Norman was a very kind man and always had a joke or a few wise words in Norwegian. He also enjoyed writing editorials in the paper, crossword puzzles. He lived a good long life and will be missed by many.

Norman is survived by his sons Dean (Sue) of Lewistown MT, Bill (Lia) of Great Falls MT, Darell (Patsy) of New London MN; daughters Darla
Larson of Lewistown MT, Brenda Allen of Westfield IN, Beth (James) Taylor  of New London MN, Tammy (Melissa) Renee of Cokato MN, Kim Brideau of New London MN and daughters in law Renee Onstad of New London MN and special cousin Audrey Ronhovde of Barrett MN; 19 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

Norman was preceded in death by his wife Gerda, his parents, brother Harry, sisters Sophie, Clara, Enid, Hazel, Annadale, Beth and
Marybelle, eldest son Randy, son in law Bill Allen, grandchildren Travis Fellers, Chris Nelson and great granddaughter Linda Allen.

Services for Norman Onstad will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 7^th, 2018  at Peace Lutheran Church in New London, followed by lunch and coffee.  There will also be a gathering in honor of Norman for family and friends at his home in Lewistown.   The family would like memorials to Hospice of Central Montana, 408 Wendall Ave, Lewistown MT 59457  Memorials can also be dropped off  Cloyd Funeral home in Lewistown MT.  Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.cloydfuneralhome.com.