Norma Lyseng Sannes passed away on Friday, March 2, 2012, last of her generation of a great family from Hitterdal, MN.

The youngest of twelve children born to Gustav and Elizabeth (Odegaard) Lyseng, she was a descendant of Norwegian immigrants. Norma Lucille's life began on February 19, 1927 in Highland Grove. She graduated from Hitterdal High School and later Moorhead State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. Throughout her 37 years as a proud educator in the Fertile-Beltrami and Twin Valley Public Schools, Norma focused on attention to detail and a sense of accomplishment and success for each student.

When Norma began her teaching career in Fertile, MN area, she met her future husband, Arthur Sannes. They were married on June 10, 1950. Art and Norma were devoted members of Concordia Lutheran Church, where they served in many capacities. Norma fulfilled her many roles as wife, mother, homemaker, and teacher with style, grace and wisdom. She enjoyed discussions with friends and dedicated a lot of time to reading on favorite subjects. She always advocated strongly for young people to obtain a good education and contributed generously to the educational pursuits of many. Some of her favorite memories were of her many students. She took great pride in their accomplishments and appreciated their well-wishes of gratitude for the influence she had on their lives.

After her retirement, Norma enjoyed traveling and spent many enjoyable winters in Mesa, AZ.

Left to celebrate her memory are her children, Jane (Dennis) Swenby of Grand Forks, ND, Bette Bermel of Java, SD, and Dale Sannes of Fertile, MN; Grandchildren: Sarah (Dennis) Richter, Nathan (Kristen) Swenby, Heath Bermel, and Great Grandchildren: Benjamin Richter and soon-to-be-born Baby Swenby; sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Loved ones passed before her are her husband of 35 years, Arthur, her parents, six sisters: Mable, Estelle, Gladys, Alma and Alice, five brothers: Gilman, Gerhard, Mervin, Grant and Arley.

Blessed be the memory of Norma Sannes. She has enriched our lives beyond measure, and leaves a legacy grounded in faith and love. Until we meet again, Norma, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Memorial service: 10:30AM, Saturday, March 10, 2012, in Concordia Lutheran Church, Fertile, MN.

Visitation: 5-7PM Friday with a 6:30PM prayer service at the church.

Memorials: An educational scholarship will be established in honor of Norma and Arthur Sannes.