Lt. Col. Jack L. Norman, USMC Ret.

Jack Laverne Norman, 91, of Traer, passed away on September 18, 2020, at Sunrise Hill Care Center. Jack was born on April 19, 1929, in Marshalltown, IA, the son of Harvey and Elsie (Poland) Norman. After the death of Jack’s mother in 1944, he went to live with his sister Evelyn Harrison of Traer. Jack graduated from Traer High School in 1947 and was awarded the Bruce Erickson memorial award for most valuable athlete that year.

In September 1948 Jack enlisted in the Marine Corps. For the next 21 years his military career took him across the globe. He fought in both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” for actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving in Vietnam (Aug 1966-Sept 1967). He was the executive officer of the 4th Battalion, Twelfth Marines artillery division which was located just south of the DMZ.

Jack found great love and devotion with Joan Weber, of Traer, and they were married on October 14, 1951. Along came three children: Pat, Sarah, and Chris. Each one born at a different duty station. Jack raised a family with great civic pride, personal responsibility, and strong bonds for family. After the death of Joan, Jack married Jean (Mix) Farkell in 2013. Jean was a special friend and classmate of Jack and Joan.

Jack’s favorite thing to do was GOLF! He was revered by his buddies for his ability to “read the greens” as well as his three hole-in-ones. He was an active member of American Legion Post 0142 Kubik- Finch.

Jack leaves behind his loving wife, Jean; daughters Pat Norman, Cedar Rapids, Sarah (Loren) Dostal, Toledo, son Chris (Vicki) Norman, Bakersfield, CA; step-children Chris (John) Sweeney, Jeff (Janice) Farkell, and Steve Farkell. He is survived by 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and sister-in-law Carol Borden and Dona Moberly. Preceding him were sisters Evelyn Harrison and Leabelle Hill, brothers Theron Treadway, Calvin Treadway and Monte Joe Harrison, with whom he shared a very special bond.

Jack was a man of integrity. He taught his family what you do and how you act when no one is watching is testimony to who you really are. Semper Fidelis! Always faithful – to the Corps, to our country, to his family. Private services will be Friday, October 16, 2020, at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Adel, IA.