Norma Marie (Hanfelder) Southard

On Friday, June 2nd, 2022, Norma Marie Southard concluded her life's journey of 99 years with her grace, keen intellect, and gentle personality intact. She was preceded by her sister Nancy Marano and parents Louise Koellman Hanfelder and Frank Henry Hanfelder. Born on January 6th, 1923, Norma grew up in rural Illinois and, following her graduation from Northwestern University, went on to a fulfilling career as a medical technician at Evanston Hospital. She later managed a private OB-GYN practice for many years in downtown Evanston. She spoke fondly of her career, co-workers, and wonderful years in Evanston.

At age 70 Norma and her sister Nancy moved from Evanston to begin a new life in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She was an active member of P.E.O. and volunteered at Carrie Tingley Hospital. She enjoyed spending time with her closest friend and sister, Nancy. They were both long-suffering Cubs fans, and joyfully cheered them on to become the 2016 World Champions. Nancy and Norma were voracious readers and loved to travel and go to Broadway shows.

In her 80s, Norma wrote her biography and described herself as shy, but enjoyed telling the stories that made up her day-to-day life. She was a great storyteller and the truest of friends.

She was grateful for the wonderful care given her by Melinda Williams. She also enjoyed frequent visits from friends and her P.E.O. sisters who threw her a "drive by" 98th birthday party, which included a police escort. Her 99th birthday party was not "Covid restricted" and was a very special occasion for her. Norma exemplified the Greatest Generation in every way. She will be laid to rest in Granite City, Illinois, with her sister and parents. Rest in peace sweet Norma.