Norma Jean Busse

Norma was born to Clyde and Bessie Siebel in St James, Minnesota in 1924 and baptized in June the following year. She grew up on her family’s farm, and attended country school in Rosendale Township. She graduated from St. James High School and went on to a Business College in Minneapolis. Norma later worked for Crane and Ordway in Mankato. In June of 1951, she married Ervin Busse and together they raised three sons: David, Paul and Mark. Living first in North Mankato and later on their farm near Rapidan, Minnesota they had many pet dogs and cats. She volunteered at Immanuel Lutheran School while her sons attended. Norma also belonged to the church choir and was a longtime member of the Ladies Auxiliary there. She and Ervin were active members of a local travel trailer club and spent many weekends camping with family and friends. They also enjoyed listening to polka music and fishing together.

After their sons were grown, Norma kept busy by helping in the family trucking business, Busse Express Service and later by volunteering for many years, at the MRCI thrift store. Norma loved cooking and baking, animals, traveling, reading, sewing, and spending time with her sons and their families. “Grandma Jean” was a dedicated grandmother, making time to care for and teach her grandkids many cherished life lessons. She was known by all for her independent and strong-willed character but also for her generosity and good sense of humor.

Norma passed away with family at her side on January 11, 2024, at the age of 99 years old. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother, one sister, and her oldest grandson.

She is survived by her three sons and their wives: David and Julie, Paul and Linda, Mark and Andrea. As well as ten grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren. Norma is dearly missed by her family and her friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held 11 am Thursday, February 15 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Mankato. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers for Norma and the Busse Family.

Memorials preferred to Immanuel Lutheran Church and School or to an organization of the donor's choice.