Norma McRoberts

Norma Dorothy Ritzschke, daughter of Walter and Dorothy (Schofield) Ritzschke, was born March 18, 1919 in Macsville Township in Grant County, Minnesota. She lived and grew up near Herman, Minnesota. On April 28, 1938, she was united in marriage to Harold McRoberts at the United Methodist Church in Herman. In 1945, Harold was drafted, making Norma responsible for raising their two children, Dwaine then six and Ruth a baby. During this time, Norma did not have a car, only a “red wagon” and a very large garden. She always enjoyed gardening.

Norma was a life member of the United Methodist Church in Herman, where she was active in ladies aid, Sunday school, vacation bible school and the choir. Norma and Harold especially enjoyed bringing roses from their garden, when they were in season, to church nearly every Sunday. She also enjoyed making lefse for the church bazaars. She was active in Donnelly charity work, the Red Cross and United Way and she was a 4-H leader for many years. Norma enjoyed making Barbie doll clothes, Raggedy Anne and Andy Dolls for children. She enjoyed fishing and quilting.

“Mother” is a good word to describe Norma. Her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews and their children were her priority.

Norma died on Sunday, October 5, 2008 at West Wind Village in Morris, having lived to reach the age of 89 years.

She is survived by her husband: Harold McRoberts of Morris; one daughter: Ruth (Roger) Cooper of Barnesville; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law: Beverly McRoberts of Wahpeton, ND; brother-in-law: Lloyd Volker of Barrett; sister-in-law: Ardith Ritzschke of Herman and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved son: Dwaine; her parents; three brothers: Harry, Carl and Perry Ritzschke and five sisters: Gladys Paulson, Cora Billings, Antoinette Schoonover, Nancy Volker and Dottie Blasing.

Serving as pallbearers for the service are: Bill Pasche, Larry Blasing, Terry Volker, Kevin Volker, Gary Ritzschke and Dwayne Sadergaski. Debbie Blume will serve as organist for the service with Jerry and Junice Bryson providing special music. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.