Norma Jean Scheelhaase, 93, of Moville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at the home of her son and daughter-in-law, Kirk and Tam Scheelhaase. Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the United Methodist Church in Moville with Reverend Eric Sayonkon officiating. A private family burial will take place at a later date. Visitation will be on Monday, November 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home in Moville. Arrangements are under the care of Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home.

Born February 27, 1931, to Carl and Mary Kirkholm, Norma Jean grew up in Battle Creek and Moville. She graduated from Kingsley-Pierson High School and went on to earn an Associate's degree from Wayne State College and a Bachelor's degree in Education from Morningside College. She began her teaching career in Manilla, Iowa, before moving to Palmdale, California, for a teaching position. On June 27, 1954, Norma Jean married the love of her life, Lyle Scheelhaase, in Battle Creek, Iowa. The couple lived in California until 1956, when they returned to Everly, Iowa. In 1959, they settled on Lyle’s grandfather’s farm near Moville. Norma resumed her teaching career at Climbing Hill and later in Sioux City.

Norma Jean had a lifelong passion for civic engagement and service. She served as Lyle’s secretary during his tenure as a State Representative from 1974 to 1979, and she led the 1980 Iowa Census team with exceptional dedication. She later earned her insurance license and spent over a decade helping seniors navigate Medicare supplements in Northwest Iowa.

Norma Jean’s home was a beloved hub for her family, where grandchildren and great-grandchildren gathered to share laughter and love. Interests included reading, cross-stitch, and jigsaw puzzles. She was also deeply involved in genealogy and family history, preserving stories for future generations. She was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church in Moville, active in the United Methodist Women (UMW). She also belonged to the American Legion Auxiliary and the Red Hat Society, where she built many cherished friendships.

Norma Jean will be deeply missed by her children: Kirk (Tam) Scheelhaase of Moville, LouAnn Scheelhaase of Kansas City, and son-in-law Larry Guthridge of Moville; her sister Mary Jeanette (Gary) Roepke of Northridge, California; her 11 grandchildren: Hanna (Josh) Koele, Elizabeth (Andy) Smith, Jesse (Julianne) Scheelhaase, Suzi (Stephen) Larson, Ray Scheelhaase, Nicholas (Hannah) Scheelhaase, Don Guthridge (Paige Groth), Joseph (Stephanie) Guthridge, Jade (Tyler) Manker, Ivy (Andy) Bremer and Nathan (Morgan) Scheelhaase; as well as 26 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lyle; her daughter, Sandra; her granddaughter, Laura; her parents; her sister Mildred (Paul); and her brother Marvin (Margie).

Norma Jean’s life was one of love, service, and faith. Her legacy of civic duty, devotion to family, and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.