Norma Jean Sample

Norma Jean Sample, age 94, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025. She was born in Platte Center, Nebraska, on January 21, 1931, the daughter of Chris and Tetta Petersen.

Norma grew up in rural Platte County, where she attended elementary school and was confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in 1944, She graduated from Platte Center High School in 1948. In 1949, she married Marvin Wilke, and together they had two daughters, Liela and Carol.

In 1979, Norma married Melvin Sample. Together, they built a life in Nebraska and Arkansas before retiring to Quinlan, Texas, in 1998.

Norma will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Liela Wilke and Carol Losacco; her four grandchildren and their spouses; nine great-grandchildren; two nieces and two nephews and their spouses; as well as her two stepdaughters and step-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Chris and Tetta Petersen; her infant brother, Verner; two infant children; her husband, Melvin Sample, her sister, Maxine Grotelueschen; her son-in-law, John Stebbins; and one infant great-grandchild.

A family memorial service will be held at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, where her ashes will be placed alongside Mel's.

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Norma Jean Sample, please click here to visit our sympathy store.