Norma Irene Murphy

Memorial Service Livestream Link: https://vimeo.com/event/4590576
Tribute Video: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/NYTMMXDKZY7D9PS7

Norma Irene (Gabbert) Murphy, 81, passed away on September 13, 2024 under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley at Kinder Care assisted living in West Fargo, ND. Norma had suffered with dementia for the past six years of her life.

Norma was born in Hankinson, ND to Louis "Louie" and Irene (Miller) Gabbert on Feb 6, 1943. She grew up on a farm outside of Hankinson, graduating from Hankinson high school in 1960. Norma was a cheerleader and baton majorette during her high school years. After high school, Norma attended ND State School of Science in Wahpeton, ND receiving her certificate in secretarial training.

Norma was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, John "Jack" Murphy on August 31, 1963 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Hankinson, ND. They made their home in Fargo, ND. They were blessed in their life with two children, a son, Mark, daughter, Monica, and three grandsons, Mason, Lawson, and Gavin.

Norma spent her entire career (35 years) working at the Veterans Administration in Fargo, ND, eventually working her way up to the Chief Directors Office. Norma was known and recognized for being very proficient at "short hand dictation" and typing. Norma retired from the VA in 1997.

After retirement, Norma and Jack returned to Hankinson, ND to spend summer and fall on the lake and winters in FL and TX. They both moved back to Fargo in 2019

Norma was a sweet, kind, and gentle soul. She was a "care taker" and always willing to lend a hand. She was very active in always helping as a parent volunteer during her childrens school years and in her church organizations. Norma loved being with her family and spending many hours with her grandchildren. She was always attending her children and grandchildrens games and events. She was a "cheerleader" long after her high school days were done. Norma enjoyed baking, reading, and gardening. She had a real fondness for cats, eating oranges and tacos, and playing an occasional slot machine.

Norma was preceded in death by her husband, John "Jack" Murphy; her brother, Gary Gabbert; grandson, Mason Murphy; and her parents, Louis and Irene Gabbert.

Norma is lovingly survived by her son, Mark (Nadine) Murphy; her daughter, Monica (Brad) Sunderland; and grandsons, Lawson Murphy and Gavin Sunderland.

The family extends a special thanks to Hospice of the Red River Valley and the staff at Kinder Care for their care, kindness, and grace in caring for Norma. Thank you to family and friends for their emotional support, thoughts and prayers.

Memorials are preferred to Hospice of the Red River Valley or Cat's Cradle Shelter of Fargo.

Memorial Service: 11:30am, Thursday, September 19, 2024 at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home, Fargo, ND with a visitation one hour prior.
Burial: Fargo National Cemetery, Fargo, ND