Norma June Baker, age 80, of Fort Peck, Montana passed away December 11, 2014 in Billings, Montana. Norma was born on January 8, 1934 in Great Falls, Montana to Harry & Bess (Kale) Van De Riet. She often spoke of her wonderful memories growing up in Sun River, Montana. Norma attended Golden Ridge Elementary and graduated from Fairfield High School where she enjoyed playing in the pep and marching band. Norma went on to attend Northern Montana College and briefly taught school in Bynum, Montana. While at Northern, Norma met the love of her life, Doug Baker of Wolf Point, Montana. They were married on July 11, 1953 in Choteau, Montana and spent the next 40 years of their life farming & ranching in the Sunny Side community south of Wolf Point. To this union they were blessed with two children, Mike & Christy. Doug and “Normie June” were married for 61 years.
Norma was a master of domestic homemaking. She had a compassionate heart – loving all little children, while her grandchildren simply melted her heart. Norma was as a mother a disciplinarian of respect and honor. She was a sharp keeper of the Cross N books and Doug’s partner in their farming & ranching operation. Norma was a caring and dedicated neighbor. She was a member of the First Presbyterian church where she served as Deacon and was an inspirational member of the church choir. Norma had an amazing unexpected “gotcha” sense of humor and could hold her own in a lively pinochle card game. She loved to sew, write letters to friends & family, and stories. Norma enjoyed reading, needlework and gardening. She was very active in Farmers Union as a youth and music leader. Norma was as well, a dyed-in-the-wool Democrat and delightfully Dutch.
In 1993 Doug and Norma moved to Fort Peck, Montana to enjoy their golden years and to make treasured family memories at the lake.
Norma is preceded in death by her parents Harry & Bess Van De Riet. Brothers Harry Jr., Jack, Robert, Raymond & Jerry. Sisters Marilyn and Lavonne. Her son Mike Baker.
Norma is survived by her husband Doug Baker of Fort Peck. Her daughter Christy (Jack) Stensland of Wolf Point. Ann Baker of Great Falls. Grandchildren Vandie (Marty) Buckingham of Miles City. Cole Baker, Becky Stensland, Meili Baker, JD (Kami) Stensland all of Wolf Point. Great Grand children Madison Stensland and Paightyn Stensland both of Wolf Point and Morgan & Ellen Buckingham of Miles City, Montana. Sister Bonnie Crary of Choteau,Montana. Sister-in-law Audrey Van De Riet of Augusta, Montana. God-son Jon Sampson of Helena, Montana and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday December 16, 2014 at Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel of Wolf Point.
Memorials may be made to the Faith Lutheran Home Foundation, 1000 6th Avenue North, Wolf Point, MT 59201 or charity of one’s choice.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Monday December 15, 2014
Clayton Stevenson Chapel
102 Custer Street
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 16, 2014
Clayton Stevenson Chapel
102 Custer Street
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Interment
Tuesday December 16, 2014
Greenwood Cemetery
738 Listerud
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Monday December 15, 2014
Clayton Stevenson Chapel
102 Custer Street
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 16, 2014
Clayton Stevenson Chapel
102 Custer Street
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Interment
Tuesday December 16, 2014
Greenwood Cemetery
738 Listerud
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Penny Good Schikora says
Doug, Christy and family, we just wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts with the loss of Norma. She has always been special to me over the years. I cherish the many wonderful memories of times spent with your family. In fact, I thought of her just the other day when I saw a little girl with plenty of freckles. Made me think of her and how she teased me about following too close behind the cow. Always cherish the memories of the many good times and you will always keep her close. Sorry we won’t be able to be there in person but you will be in our thoughts. Love, Penny and Monte
Wally and Earlene Sexton says
Doug and family:
We were so hoping Norma would pull through and get better. Our condolences to you and the family. She is at peace and without pain. Rest in peace, Norma. We will miss you.
Laura Wittenberg says
Doug and family,
So sorry to hear of Norma’s passing. She was one of the kindest ladies I have ever known. I have a lot of great memories of you and Norma. We spent some great times together so long ago. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I know you will miss her so very much. May God wrap his arms around you and comfort you in the days and weeks ahead.
Love and Prayers,
Laura
Mary and Jolyn Dillon says
Our love and most sincere sympathy to all of you. We are so sad for the loss of your wife, Mom, Grandmother, and a wonderful neighbor. Norma was such a sweet, very sweet lady. It is so comforting knowing that we will see our loved ones again; and wonderful to know that this Christmas she will be spending it with Jesus and Mike. Your family will be in our prayers. God bless you , We love you,
Mary and Jolyn Dillon
Richard Hibl says
Doug and family
I am very sorry to hear of Norma’s passing.
she was a great lady.
Norma and family are in my prayers.
Donn & Debbie Schutt says
Doug, Christy and family, we are sooo very sorry for your loss. Norma was a very special person. Never saw her without a smile for all! She will be greatly missed. One comfort in it all is knowing that now she is so Happy and with Jesus!! We will all see her again one day!!
Aria Schwartz and family says
So sorry for your loss. We are keeping you all in our prayers. Love you all!!