Obituary of Norma Jonasson

JONASSON: Norma Jean Jonasson (née Smith). It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Norma Jean Jonasson on Friday, July 17, 2020. Norma was born in Portage La Prairie on June 20, 1945. She grew up on the family farm in Edwin, Manitoba and that's where her lifelong love of the outdoors and gardening began. She was the youngest of five children and was predeceased by her parents James and Edna Smith, her sister Muriel and brother Colin. She is survived by her sisters Florence and Anne. Norma completed her teaching certificate in 1964 at the Manitoba teacher's college. She met Harold Jonasson in Edwin and they were married in 1965. They remained soulmates for 57 years, the last twenty at their self-made paradise west of Brandon. Here they shared their dreams of family, education, travel and worked hard to build their home. Norma found her greatest peace, hosting family gatherings and was at her proudest watching her family interact. Norma's strong belief in community led her to volunteer with many organizations some of which included: chairperson for the Circle Eight Dance Club; co-chaired the 2012 International Conference of the Icelandic National League of North America; volunteered at numerous curling bonspiels and belonged to a square-dancing club in Brandon. Norma didn't seek glory or attention and yet, when needed, she was a natural leader and planner. She is survived by her loving husband Harold; son Doug (Lynne) and their children Taylor (Jarret), Alyssa, Kylie; daughter Cheryl (Shaun) and their children Ashley (Nathan), Shealynn, Mack and great grandson Harrison. We cannot find the words to express the depth of our sorrow and heartbreak at Norma's sudden passing. A private service was held with interment to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Norma would appreciate donations to community-based charities such as: Heart & Stroke Foundation, 1379 Kenaston Blvd., Winnipeg, MB, R3P 2T5; Diabetes Canada, 401 - 1 Wesley Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 4C6 or Canadian Cancer Society, 415-1st Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 2W8.