Norma Dorothy Hanson

Norma Dorothy Hanson, age 66 of Park Rapids, formerly of Menahga, was ushered into Heaven by a host of angels on Thursday, March 20, 2014 surrounded by her loved ones, at the St. Josephs Hospital in Park Rapids. Norma was born on September 26, 1947 to Felix "Peanuts" and Dorothy (Sergent) Shepersky in Park Rapids, Minnesota. She attended country school near her home in Green Valley Township through the sixth grade. She then went on to attend high school in Menahga, where she graduated with the Class of 1965. On November 25, 1967, Norma was united in marriage to a handsome young soldier, Ronald D. Hanson at St. Peters Catholic Church in Park Rapids. This union was blessed with two sons: David and Harold. Norma dedicated her life to making a loving home for her husband and sons. She was a wonderful cook and baker. Some of her favorite dishes included baked snapping turtle, pickled pigs feet, three corners, and her famous chicken feet and rice. She would serve these up with a side of laughter, even to the chagrin of certain family members (mostly her in-laws). In addition to caring for her family, she worked tirelessly as a waitress for several area café's; including, Hess's Café in Menahga and the Nugget Truck Stop in Park Rapids. Norma eventually began a career in the cafeteria at the Park Rapids Area Schools. Her career spanned over 26 years, where she went from a substitute to the Head Cook at the high school, until health problems forced her into a regrettable retirement in 2011. She was a devoted and faithful member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Park Rapids where she brought her two sons up to know the Lord Jesus Christ and his teachings. She was a Den Mother, Hockey Mom, and a willing volunteer for anything her sons were involved with. She was a gifted organizer and often used those talents to plan and work at fundraisers and benefits for any who were in need. She served for a number of years as a member of the Mahube Council and the Otto Hendrickson American Legion Auxiliary. Throughout her lifetime, Norma demonstrated unconditional love for her family and extended family. She especially loved her Godchildren and her many nieces and nephews and loved their children just as much!!! Kids were a tremendous joy in Norma's life, treating them all as if they were her own Grandkids. Her own grandkids were certainly what made Grandma Norma's smile shine brightest! Whether spending time with them or even just talking about them, they were truly the twinkle of her eye and the glimmer of her big smile. From the moment Christopher was born right thru the arrival of Gavin, each one gave special new meaning to Norma's life. They often provided the inspiration for fighting on thru the numerous health challenges she faced over the years. She truly loved them all with her entire being! She will be lovingly remembered by her husband and soulmate for these past 46 years, Ron of Park Rapids; her two sons: David (Katie) Hanson and Harold Hanson all of Park Rapids; her six grandchildren: Christopher, Kimberly, Samantha, Reese, Abby Jo and Gavin; four sisters: Joyce Pearson of Nevis, Ellen (Randy) Graves of Osage, Ruth (Bill) Alden of Nevis and Janet (Bob) Decker of Frazee; three brothers: David "Peanut" (Clarice) Shepersky of Virginia, Minnesota, Frank Shepersky of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Darrol Shepersky of Nevis; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins too numerous to count and a world full of friends. Norma was preceded in death by her parents and one infant grandson. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 28, 2014 at the St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Park Rapids with Father Thomas Friedl celebrating. The music will be led by friends of the family, Trevor Pikula and Annette Haas. The active casket bearers will be: Ron Hughes, Dave Decker, Frank Torma, Keith Torma, Chuck Huwe, Art Symanietz, Charlie Kramer, Scott Kramer, Ed Smith, Chuck Schmitz. The honorary casket bearers will be Norma's beloved co-workers from the Park Rapids Public Schools Cafeteria. Following the service, a luncheon will be hosted by the church. Interment will be made next to her parents in the Green Valley Cemetery northwest of Menahga, near to the Shepersky family farm. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the Jones-Pearson Funeral Home in Park Rapids and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.