Norman Vaksdal

Norman Leroy Vaksdal, of Grantsburg, passed in the early morning hours of February 21, 2017, at the age of 78. He is survived by his wife, Betty Borders Vaksdal, his children Douglas, Diane, and Derek, his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Norman grew up in Minooka, Illinois with his parents, Harvey and Virginia Vaksdal, and his sisters, Margaret and Janet. He and Betty were high school sweethearts, who married in 1955 after they ran away from home the night of the Junior Prom. Norman passed just a few months shy of their 62nd wedding anniversary. Norman moved to Grantsburg in 1968 and worked for McNally Industries until his retirement in in 2002. He served terms on both the Grantsburg Village Board and on the Grantsburg School District Board. Norman loved the outdoors. At heart, he remained an Illinois farmer, and spent countless happy hours on the tractor, tearing up the dirt. He also hunted, fished, shot trap and gardened. He often emceed the Ducks Unlimited Banquet and various Rod & Gun Club events over the years. He also taught Hunter Safety classes. He was well known for raising and releasing pheasants and giving away sweet corn. The easiest way to make him laugh was to turn on Roadrunner cartoons. It was sure to make him laugh so hard he cried. Per the request of Norman, no services will be rendered. Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Grantsburg. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com