Norma Strand

Norma Strand, age 86, passed away on January 7th at St Croix Hospital, St Croix Falls WI.

Born to LeMoyne and Lucille Boleman February 25th, 1939 in Franconia, where she was delivered at home by Dr Simonstad. Norma's early career was in nursing as an ICU RN, with jobs in Minnesota, Wisconsin, California and Wyoming. Toward the end of nursing, she pursued degrees in history and art from the University of Wyoming, and followed her passion for western history and Native American cultures. Her knowledge and special talents allowed her to work at various museums in Wyoming, Montana, and Alaska. With her adventures she gained many new relationships, and was adopted by the Crow Indians, where she learned how to do intricate beadwork and participated in many of their traditions. Her final home was west of Cushing WI, where she lived in a remote area of the Barrens and worked at Crex Meadows. She enjoyed the outdoors, wildlife, history and was a prolific artist and crafter in many areas - creating numerous homemade gifts for keepsakes.

She is survived by her children Mark (Kathleen) Strand and Becky Strand, brother Roger (Joan) Boleman, sister Willi Kenedy, brother-in-law Lloyd, sister-in-law Ricky, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents LeMoyne and Lucille, brother Lee and sister Carol.

A celebration of life will be held this spring at Franconia Cemetery - date TBD.