Norman Dittberner

Norman Duwaine Dittberner was born October 12, 1926, to Wallace and Irene (Wodtke) Dittberner in Garfield. He was baptized, confirmed and was a life-long member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Garfield. He received his education at St. John's Lutheran School. He lived in the home where he grew up in Garfield until 2006. Norman served his country, spending two years in Korea with the U.S. Army. He was proud of this honor and was awarded medals for National Defense Service, United Nations Service, Korean Service and Good Conduct. Serving was a way of life for Norman. He worked on the Erwin and Betty Dittberner farm and at the Garfield Creamery. He served as a freeway maintenance attendant, employed by Green View until his retirement in 2005. Norman also served on the Garfield Fire Department and was life member of the American Legion Post #87, and Alexandria VFW Post #936. In 2006, Norman left his boyhood home and moved to Windmill Ponds. He enjoyed his cozy apartment, the meals and socializing with friends. He liked going fishing, watching the Twins and Vikings on television, playing bingo and collecting hats.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irene and Wallace Dittberner and his first cousin Betty Wodtke Timm.

Norman is survived by his cousins, Everald Timm of Garfield, Gerald (Rose Mary) Wodtke of Buffalo, Marcia Wodtke (Al) Westfal of Boyers, Pennsylvania, Ardelle Dittberner Froemming and Bobette Dittberner McCabe both of Alexandria, Dave (Carol) Dittberner of Miltona and Cheryl Dittberner Mrowicki of Pengilly.

Norman went home to live with Jesus on Sunday, February 7, 2016, under the care of Knute Nelson, at the age of 89 years, 3 months, 25 days.

Funeral services are 10 a.m., Monday, February 15, 2016, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Garfield with Rev. Benjamin Schimm officiating. Music is provided by organist, Irma Brockberg and vocalist, Brad Lambrecht, Eulogy given by Dr. Deb Dittberner. Full military honors accorded by the Minnesota Honor Guard, Alexandria American Legion Post #87, Alexandria VFW Post #936, and VVA Rifle Squad Chapter #235. Burial is at the church cemetery.

Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church.

Pallbearers are Tim Dittberner, Joel Dittberner, Pat McCabe, John McCabe, Tom McCabe, Mark McCabe, Steve Froemming, Dr. Deb Dittberner, Mike Dittberner and Tim Froemming. Honorary pallbearers are the Garfield Fire Department, Betty Dittberner, Kathy Klug, Chris Mattson, Everald Timm, and Jay Sieling.

The family prefers memorials to: St. John's Cemetery Fund; Knute Nelson Chaplaincy; Knute Nelson Hospice; Garfield Fire Department/First Responders; Alexandria American Legion Post #87, and the Douglas County Outreach Foodshelf.

A special thank you for all those who have given Norman extra love and caring during his life. The family is grateful for all your thoughts, prayers and memorials shared on his behalf. Bless you.