Norma Zook

Norma D. Zook, age 92, of St. Anthony, MN, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2019. Norma was born in Columbia Heights on July 17, 1926. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Harry; parents, Roy and Gudrun Haversack; sister and brother-in-law, Virginia and Arby Carlson with whom she had an especially close and loving relationship; great-grandson, Austin Ritzema. Norma lived her entire life in the Minneapolis area and was an inspiration to her entire family with her kind and gracious nature. She always wore a smile on her face and had a laugh ready. Norma was interested in everything around her - especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was happiest when they came to visit. She loved to read, travel, sew and cook (collecting many recipes along the way.) She had a flair for entertaining and an enduring sweet tooth. Norma took great pride in passing on her Norwegian heritage by preparing delicious traditional foods. She was an exceptional homemaker and later worked outside the home in several positions including secretary, research and development administrator and realtor. Norma enjoyed learning and had always striven to lead by example. We all benefited from the love she showered us with and the way in which she lived her life especially facing her recent health challenges with courage and grace. Norma is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Gary (Susan) Zook; daughters and son-in-law, Nancy and Lowell Bultena, Cynthia Zook and Gayle Zook; grandchildren, Nathan (Julie) Zook, Carolyn Zook, Christopher Bultena, Scott (Heather) Bultena, Melissa Ritzema, Ryne Smith and Emily Smith; great-grandchildren, Sofia and Ezra Zook, Wyatt and Paige Ritzema and Kayla Bultena; other special loved ones, niece, Marcia (Ted) Heisler; Mark Smith; along with many cousins and longtime friends.   A special thank you to Katie Huseth her PA, the exceptional staff at Chandler Place, (where Norma resided for the last few years) and the hospice team from Health Partners for their loving care. If so desired, memorials preferred to Our Savior's Lutheran Church of Circle Pines or donor's choice.