In Memory of
Norma Jean Knapp
August 31, 1926 - January 8, 2021
Norma Jean was born in Norfolk, Nebraska on August 31, 1926, as the only child of
Marion and Gladys Peterson. She died peacefully on January 8, 2021 at Memorial
Hospital in Seward, Nebraska at the age of 94. She lived her entire life in Madison,
attending District 63 Elementary School and graduating from Madison High School
in 1943.
Following high school, Norma Jean worked at the Madison County Courthouse. She
married Melvin F. Knapp (her high school sweetheart) on June 29th, 1947 and they
had two children, Randy and Vicky. She dedicated much of her time assisting
Melvin on their farm, helping with chores, and even driving a tractor when needed.
She had a passion and skill for growing lovely roses. Norma Jean and Melvin were
avid dancers and spent many weekends on the dance floor. They were also often
seen riding in parades in their antique cars. Norma Jean enjoyed throwing candy
from the car.
After 30 years of farm life, Norma Jean and Melvin moved from the farm into the
town of Madison. It was during that time that Norma Jean generously devoted her
time caring for her aging parents and numerous other relatives.
Norma Jean will be fondly remembered for her laugh and sense of humor. She
leaves behind her son Randy (Brenda) Knapp and daughter Vicky (Bruce) Luhr, six
grandchildren; Justin (Winny) Luhr, Andrew Wacker, Bryan Knapp, Angela
(Shannon) Vergil, Brandon Knapp, and Kara (Chase) Carlson, and four
great-grandchildren; Zane and Callie Vergil, Kolton Carlson, and Wyatt Knapp. Her
parents; her husband, Melvin; and her son-in-law, John Wacker, preceded her in
death.
Norma Jean and Melvin enjoyed 70 wonderful years together. Melvin died at age 92
in 2018. Now they are cruising down the "Golden Highway" together in their 1931 Model A.
CASKET BEARERS
Andrew Wacker, Bryan Knapp, Angela Vergil, Brandon Knapp, Kara Carlson, Justin Luhr, Chase Carlson, Shannon Vergil
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. John's Lutheran Church in Madison, Nebraska or
The American Heart Association.
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