Norman James Mityng

Norman James “Norm” Mitlyng, age 81, of Alexandria, died on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Alomere Health in Alexandria.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., on Monday, May 18, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Full military honors will be accorded by the Minnesota Honor Guard, and the Veteran’s Memorial Honor Guard.

The visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church.

Norm Mitlyng was born on September 30, 1944, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Joseph and Inez (Norman) Mitlyng. He grew up in Minneapolis and attended South High School, graduating with the Class of 1963. Norm proudly served his country after enlisting in the United States Army on September 18, 1965. He was honorably discharged on August 1, 1971, carrying with him a lifelong sense of duty, love of country, humility, and quiet strength.

On May 22, 1971, Norm married the love of his life, Diane Donley. Their marriage was one of deep devotion and partnership, spanning more than five decades. Together they raised two daughters, Jennifer and Christine, who were the pride and joy of Norm’s life.

Norm dedicated over 30 years of his professional life as an engineer estimator with Buhler, Inc. in Plymouth. He began his career there in 1979 and retired in 2015, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues for his strong work ethic, thoughtful approach, and steady presence.

In May of 2016, Norm and Diane moved to Alexandria, where they embraced a slower pace of life, formed meaningful friendships, and enjoyed the natural beauty of the area.

Norm will be remembered for his gentle spirit, kind heart, and quiet sense of humor. He had a strong acceptance of faith. He cherished life’s simple pleasures—fishing on peaceful waters, grilling on the patio, gathering with friends at local wineries, and discovering a good restaurant. Every conversation with Norm, led to fishing and where to go to “catch the big ones” or “what did you use…that little blue one?” He loved spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them about boating and fishing. It made his heart full to mentor children of any age. Norm left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Joseph and Inez Mitlyng; brother, Keith Mitlyng; nephew, Bill Mitlyng; sister-in-law, Janet Donley; and brother-in-law, Wayne Donley.

Norm is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Diane; daughters, Jennifer (John) Burgfechtel of the Villages, Florida and Christine (Don) Deutscher of Windsor, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Brooke and Brady, and Leilani and Kaili; brother, Joseph (Terry) Mitlyng; in-laws, Heidi Donley, Susan (Craig) Johanson, Sharlene (Jeff) Paur, David (Mel) Donley, and Cheryl Donley; along with many nieces and nephews.