Norma Jean Marshall

Norma Jean Marshall, age 95, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, October 10, 2025, at Azria Health in Winterset.

Norma Jean Ramus was born on January 6, 1930, in Lu Verne, Iowa, to Otto Gustuv and May Elizabeth (Sankey) Ramus. She was the second youngest of nine children: one boy followed by eight girls!

On August 1, 1948, she was united in marriage to Willis Floyd Marshall. Their beautiful union produced two children, who were born on the same day four years apart in Algona. At the time of Willie’s passing on October 17, 2021, they had celebrated 73 years together.

Norma graduated from Lu Verne High School in 1946. After marriage, she worked secretarial jobs until the birth of their children. Raising them was a highlight of her life. She then was a long-time secretary for the Presbyterian Church in Algona. She and Willie also owned Willie’s Carryout and she later retired from the Kossuth County Courthouse Treasurer’s Office in 1995.

Retirement agreed with Willie and Norma! They were able to travel to Maryland to visit children and grandchildren; vacation with her youngest sister and brother-in-law; and summer in Cutty's in Johnston to shop, visit family, and camp in their RV trailer.

Norma loved her family and spending time with them all. She was the keeper of the history and family stories. Her family isn’t sure how they will keep it all straight without her. Norma never viewed herself as a social person, but at a gathering she could always be found as the one with everyone gathered around her, listening intently.

Norma is survived by her children, J. B. Heppenstall (Jean Marshall) and Michelle (Terry) Vaudt; grandchildren, Kristine (Tobin) Tyler, Quinn Marshall, and Casey Marshall; and great-grandchildren, Garrett Tyler (Gracen Schrodt), Nora Tyler, and Remy Tyler; sister, Janice (Dennis) Schulz; and many nieces and nephews and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto & May Ramus; her brother Berte; her sisters, Anna, Irene, Velma, Gladys, Virginia, and Betty; and her husband, Willis.

A Celebration of Life will be held for both Willis and Norma at a later date. Details to come.

Please wear red (Willie’s favorite color) or pink for Norma.