Norma Ausman Obituary

Norma K. Ausman, age 93, of Elk Mound, died Saturday July 20 at Marshfield Medical Center in Eau Claire, surrounded by her family.

Norma was born January 12, 1931, in Eau Claire. She was the daughter of Jacob and Katherine (Jensen) Dahl. Norma grew up in Elk Mound and graduated from Elk Mound High School where she met her future husband, Joseph Ausman. They were married June 27, 1953, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elk Mound. After marriage they made their home on the farm and raised their family.

Norma was a pillar of strength, known for her unwavering love and dedication to her family. Her love for family was evident in every aspect of her life, from the warmth of her home to the delicious smells that filled her kitchen, especially on Sundays when the entire family would gather after church to share the week's happenings.

Her kitchen was a hub of activity, filled with the scents of freshly baked pies, cookies, and bars. Her recipes will continue to be passed down through generations and will be treasured as a testament to her culinary skill and love for bringing family together around the table. Her most famous favorites will always continue to be her white bread, strawberry jam, and of course, lefse.

A passionate advocate for youth development, Norma dedicated herself to over 50 years of service to the local 4-H club, mentoring youth in food preservation and baking. Her luscious large garden provided much of the produce that led to many blue ribbons. However, Norma also loved to compete in the fair herself, including this year, where she helped her granddaughter, Emily, finalize her favorite recipe for white bread, which earned grand champion.

Norma also lived a life guided by faith and family values. Her devotion to her church community was a testament to her deep spirituality and commitment to serving others. She found great joy in volunteering and being actively involved in church and community activities. She served in homemakers, was the church circle president and helped lead and organize their yearly scandinavian bake.

Her kindness and generosity touched the lives of many.

Among her greatest joys was fishing - an activity that brought her immense happiness and countless cherished memories, specifically at Caliper Lake in Nestor Falls, Canada. Whether she was casting a line with loved ones by her side or telling tales of the ones that got away, her enthusiasm for fishing was infectious. She was always the first one down to the fishhouse to see what was being caught and on what color lure. She hated water but would sit out in the rain to get just one more cast.

Norma never missed an opportunity to tell her kids and grandkids how much she loved them and how proud she was of them. Her worries and prayers were dedicated to wanting the best for those she loved. Norma leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion. Her gentle spirit and nurturing presence enriched the lives of all who knew her.

Norma is survived by her children, Marie (Ron) Swartz, Charles (Lori) Ausman, Peter (Brenda) Ausman, Louise (David) Turek and Janet (Michael) Brunner; 12 grandchildren, Kristine (Brian) Marcou, Jennifer Gutowski, Allison (Paul) Osmak, Joshua (Ashley) Ausman, Sarah (Blake Johnson) Ausman, Rachel Ausman, Jacob Ausman (Klare Armstrong) Emily Ausman, Andrea (Jeremy) Mahr, Aaron (Skylar) Turek, Zachary Brunner (Lindsay Neitzel) and Hannah (Dan) Schubbe; 11 great-grandchildren, Lili Marcou, Ava & Anthony Gutowski, Dylan & Olivia Osmak, James, Avery & Joseph Mahr, Benjamin Johnson, Lewis & Isabel Turek.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joseph; four sisters, Arlene in infancy, Florence Marquardt, Verna Carey & Marion Dummer; and one brother, James Dahl.

Memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday July 30 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elk Mound with Rev. Timothy Welles officiating. Burial will take place in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. Tuesday until the time of the services at the church on Tuesday.

Condolences may be made online at rhielfuneralhome.com.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Menomonie is serving the family.