Norma Jean Oyen, age 80, of Rochester MN, longtime resident of Williston, died Monday, Sept 18, 2017 at Mayo Clinic in Rochester MN. She was born in Williston, ND, to Norman and Ester (Olson) Kittelson on February 9, 1937.

Norma grew up on a farm north of Zahl, graduated from Grenora High School in 1955, and attended Minot State graduating with her Teaching degree in 1957.
Norma married Walter Herbert Oyen of Hanks, on August 18, 1957 and remained married for 57 years until Walter’s passing. She began her first teaching job in Alexander ND. She taught grade school in early marriage, until they had 4 children: Valerie, Craig, Lance and Mitchell. In 1960 they moved to Williston, where Norma substitute taught for 40 plus years in and around Williston, while actively participating in her children’s activities such as 4H and church activities.

Norma has been involved at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Williston for over 50 years, with Circle, ladies aid, choir, and various other activities which she dearly loved. Norma helped Walter farm, was an excellent baker, cook and seamstress, enjoyed rosemaling and other arts. She enjoyed performing in various choirs, including Dakota Dimensions and Entertainment, Inc. In those groups she held many roles, such as performer, treasurer, and costume creator/coordinator.

She also enjoyed playing volleyball, cards and golf as long as she was surrounded by her friends. She was especially proud of her golf hole in one, time with the ladies at the Municipal Golf Course, and traveling. Until her death, she remained devoted to her church, family, friends and the farm where she grew up.

Norma is survived by her sons, Lance (Karen) Oyen, and Mitchell (Michelle) Oyen, both of Rochester, MN; 8 grandchildren: Briana and Brennan Larsen, Collin, Elizabeth, Annika, Walter, Grace and Everett Oyen; cousins, nephews and nieces; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Ester and Norman, husband Walter, daughter Valerie and son Craig, and sister Adeline (Kittelson) Peck.

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