Norma Rae Einspahr passed away peacefully on December 27, 2024, a date that was as extraordinary as she was—it marked her 72th wedding anniversary. Norma always loved to mention how many years they were together, Dale would tell everyone “it took her 6 years to catch me” Norma would reply “Well, he finally quite running”. Their playful banter and deep love were the heart of a story that spanned nearly eight decades, filled with laughter, adventure, and family.
Born on a farm in Wauneta, Nebraska, Norma entered the world on January 10, 1934, and brought joy to everyone she met. She was a proud graduate of Wauneta High School in 1951—"Go Broncos!"—where she was the spirited drum major of the marching band. After high school, she embarked on the next chapter of her life, moving to Colorado in 1953 to build a life and raise her beautiful family.
Norma was a woman of many passions. She loved her family with all her heart, and her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She adored Lange, Bowen, Ryder, Russell, and little Henry, each of whom brought her endless pride and happiness. Her quilting, knitting, and crafting talents were unmatched—her creations warmed not just bodies but hearts. As an avid collector, she found beauty and meaning in the little treasures of life, a reflection of her ability to see value in every moment.
Norma also had a lifelong love affair with golf, traveling far and wide with Dale to chase the perfect swing and soak up the beauty of each course. Her dry sense of humor, which she wielded with surgical precision, was as much a part of her charm as her generosity and kindness. Whether offering a witty quip or a cozy quilt, Norma's love was felt by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her son, Dale Eugene Einspahr Jr., who passed tragically in 1984 in a snow avalanche; her brothers Kenneth Wayne Terry, Gene Lewis Terry, Dale Donald Terry, and Clinton LeRoss Terry; and her parents, Norman Glen Terry and Beulah Ditton. Though her heart endured great losses, she carried their memories with grace and resilience.
Norma is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Dale Eugene Einspahr, who was always by her side, sharing stories, laughter, and their mutual adoration for family. She leaves behind her son, Randal Lee Einspahr, and his wife Dianne; her granddaughter, Katie Maureen Ballard, and her husband Zack; and their children Lange, Bowen, Ryder, grandson Russell, Tiffany and their son Henry.
Norma’s life was a testament to love, family, and living with humor and grace. She was proud of her roots, her achievements, and most importantly, her people. As a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she leaves behind a legacy stitched together with care, laughter, and memories as warm as one of her handmade quilts.
A memorial service to celebrate Norma’s remarkable life will be announced later. Until then, her family asks that you honor her memory by embracing your loved ones, laughing at life's quirks, and chasing your dreams with the same steadfastness Dale chased Norma.
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