Norma Jean Harada

Norma Jean Harada, 70, passed away in Clackamas, Oregon on Thursday, July 31, 2025. She was born on December 16, 1954 in Culver Oregon, the daughter of Ronald and Ertith Bergen. She grew up under the open skies of Central Oregon on the family farm alongside her younger brother, Jim.

Norma was born with only one fully developed arm, a fact that was quickly forgotten by anyone who knew her. She never let it slow her down or keep her from trying new activities. During high school, she participated in choir, volleyball, honor society, and various 4-H clubs. She graduated from Culver High School at the top of her class in 1973.

Growing up, church was a big part of Norma's life and was where she developed a deep love for God, singing hymns, and serving others. She was known for being kind and gentle-natured.

After high school, Norma attended nursing school at Dallas Baptist College (now Dallas Baptist University) and Oklahoma Baptist University. Following graduation, she moved back to Oregon and began her successful 30-year career as a registered nurse.

On July 28, 1979, Norma married Hideo "Dale" Harada and started a family in the Portland area. Norma and Hideo had two children, Rachael and Aaron. As a family, they often enjoyed vacations together on the Oregon coast.

Norma worked at Legacy Hospital in Portland, Kaiser Permanente in Clackamas, and as a school nurse. She also ran an adult foster care home for several years toward the end of her career.

Later in her life, Norma stepped into a journey of aging with dementia. As the dementia progressed, Norma's character, kindness, love for God, and love of music and hymns remained. Even within days of passing, she hummed and sang along to hymns as visitors came to spend time with her.

Norma is survived by her husband of 46 years, Hideo, daughter Rachael McKenzie, son and daughter-in-law Aaron and Gaby Harada, 12 grandchildren (Gwen, Owen, Mateo, Elle, Alex, Kallie, Ruby, Chris, Lucas, Tegan, Ben, and Liam), and her brother and sister-in law Jim and Pat Bergen.

Norma was passionate about supporting Christian missions, often leading fundraising efforts for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering each year. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Norma's memory may be directed to the International Mission Board to support missionaries: https://www.imb.org/generosity/give-now/?designation=most+needed#imb-give-form