Norma C. Simpson

Norma C. Simpson, 86, longtime Iron River, WI resident, died Friday, February 11, 2011 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on July 22, 1924 in Maple, WI to Evert and Alina (Perala) Suominen.

Norma married Walter J. Simpson in 1941 and celebrated forty-seven years of marriage before he passed away 1988.

They worked on the ore boats together in the 1940’s, then Norma became a homemaker, staying home to raise their family. During that time, she enjoyed dancing, playing cards, gardening, “coffee klutches” traveling and spending time with family. Many will remember her Finnish songs, wit and words that always brought laughter.

Norma is survived by three daughters, Annette (Joe) Petratur, Davenport, IA, Debbie (Phil Grove) Baillie, Iron River, Gail (Steve) Poser, Ham Lake, MN; one daughter-in-law, Ramona Simpson, Lake Nebagamon; one brother-in-law, Duane Simpson, Iron River; eight grandchildren, Greg (Amy) Simpson, Kimberly (Tim) Simpson-Sanger, Mark (Carey) Kainu, Bret Kainu, Tim (Amanda) Wade, Lori (Bob) Anderson, Brandon and Paige Poser; four great-grandchildren, Nathan, Carley, Kaden and Emalee and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband Walter, Norma is preceded in death by two sons, Dennis and Gary Simpson, her parents, two sisters, Ellen Soyring and Ailie Hakkila; one sister-in-law, Dolly Talso and a special friend, George Baerwald.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM Wednesday, February 16, 2011 until the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial in St. Michaels Catholic Church in Iron River with the Rev. Fr. Michael Crisp as celebrant.

There will be a luncheon in the church following the service.
The family would like to acknowledge and thank the many wonderful caregivers who loved Norma like family for the last years of her life.

Special thanks to Norma’s granddaughter and great-granddaughter, Lori and Emalee Anderson for their extraordinary loving care.

The family would also like to thank St. Mary’s Hospice Care and others for allowing Norma to remain in her home.

Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send a condolence or sign the on-line guest book, visit our website at www.lenroot-maetzold.com.