Norma Jean Dotson

Norma Jean Dotson, daughter of Marvin E. Nelsen and Lillie (Christensen) Nelsen, was born July 16, 1932 on a farm in Cass Co., IA. At an early age she moved with her family to a farm in Palo Alto Co., IA. She attended a small rural school and finished her education at Lake Center High School, graduating in 1950.

Norma was united in marriage to Duane Allen Dotson on September 1, 1950. To this union 4 children were born. She lived in Spencer, IA all her married life and worked part-time for many years, Spencer and Cook Dry Cleaners.

Norma was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church. She loved dearly singing to and caring for her children and grandchildren. Her hobbies were many: sewing, crocheting, fishing, playing her keyboard. Working in her flowers beds was one of her favorites. She traveled with her family to many states in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Many times were spent in the travel trailer at the lakes and traveling to old time country music festivals. And playing cards with family.

Norma passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at St. Luke’s Lutheran Home in Spencer, IA, at the age of 93. She was preceded in death by her husband Duane, one son, Larry Dotson, one daughter, Sharon Kay Voss, her parents, 2 sisters, Marjorie Hale and Stella Stahly, 3 brothers, Ronald, Leland, and Harold Nelsen, and a grandson, Anthony David Dotson.

Left to cherish her memory are her 2 children, Janet Friesen of Spencer, IA, and Rodney Dotson of Des Moines, IA; 6 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Danny (Mary) Nelsen of Spencer, IA; other relatives; and many friends.