Norbert Raymond Hillestad, age 86, of Mahnomen, MN, died Friday, August 5, 2011 at the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home.

Norbert was born at home in Norman County on December 5, 1924, to Oscar and Olga (Ose) Hillestad. Growing up, he attended North 31 Country School and Waukon School. Norbert was baptized at Ness Lutheran Church, confirmed at Norman Lutheran Church, rural Gary, MN, and later became a member of Faaberg Lutheran Church in Rindal, MN. When his father retired in 1960, the family purchased a home in Bejou, MN. Over the years, Norbert not only helped his dad on the farm, but worked for many area farmers until his retirement. In 2007, he moved into the Mahnomen Health Center where he has since made his home.


Enjoying the simple things in life, Norbert was always happy and cheerful. He also liked taking in sporting events, especially basketball. Norbert was a long time member of Faaberg Lutheran Church.

Norbert is survived by several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Manford, in 1997; and one sister, Ovidia, in 2010.

Funeral services were held at 11 am on Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at Faaberg Lutheran Church, Rindal with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Pastor Kelly Ahola officiated with Dorothy Harstad playing the organ. Serving as pallbearers were Gary Bendickson, Norlien Flakne, Norris Halland, Manley Hillstad, Kenneth Hillstad and Norman Hillstad. Interment was in the Faaberg Lutheran Cemetery in Rindal, MN.