Norma Jean Thompson

Norma Jean Thompson (Wethern), age 87, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2026, in West St. Paul, Minnesota.

Norma was born at home on August 21, 1939, in St. Maries, Idaho, to Clyde Herman and Viola Angeline (Powell) Wethern. At age two, her family returned to Wisconsin, residing in the Clam Falls area before settling in Wausau by the time she was ten.

Norma held fond memories of growing up as the youngest child. Her childhood was marked by simple joys like playing with her siblings and cousins, sharing fresh peaches with her mother while canning crates of them, and a special bond with her “daddy,” who was protective and generous with her. Proud of her education, Norma lettered in Glee Club and graduated from Wausau High School in the Class of 1959.

On May 21, 1960, Norma married the love of her life, Philip Martin Thompson, at the First Church of the Nazarene in Wausau. They lived in Wausau before moving to Merrill when their three children were young. Together, they built a life filled with family, camping trips, vacations, backyard gatherings, scenic drives and Sunday church services. Norma worked for General Telephone as an operator, for Gibson / Pamida and Campbell's as a store clerk, Red Owl as a baker, and was a beloved caregiver for her grandchildren. She served as a Sunday school teacher, Cub and Boy Scout leader, and active PTA member. She was a woman of strong faith, firm opinions, stubborn determination, and endless love, who delighted in hosting parties and decorating for every holiday. Her children fondly remember her in the kitchen, cooking, baking treats and making home-canned jams, jellies, and pickles.

Norma’s heart was happiest whenever family was near. She was silly, patient, and endlessly playful with children. A full cookie jar, a bowl of candies, and a scoop of ice cream were staples in her home. Throughout her life, music filled her soul; she loved to sing songs from her youth, her favorite hymns, and the country music that Phil played from the patio speakers. In her later years, she cherished rocking on her front porch swing, gardening, taking walks, and tagging along to any outing—parks, fairs, festivals, rummage sales. She never missed a wedding, and could usually be found on the dance floor. She always appreciated a phone call from a loved one. Whenever the conversation drew to a close, Norma was known to offer her trademark phrase with a smile: “Well, that’s all I know.”

Norma is survived by her three children: Sally (Steve) McHenry of Inver Grove Heights, MN, David (Lorna) Thompson of Plover, WI, and Shelia Roth of Wausau, WI; seven grandchildren: Hollie (Laura) Thompson of Madison, WI, Molly (Terry) Sullivan of Elmhurst, IL, Erin (Nick) Wolf of St. Paul, MN, Patrick Kleinschmidt of Merrill, WI, Alex Sousek of Weston, WI, Abby McHenry of Louisville, KY, and Anthony Roth of Wausau, WI; three step-grandchildren: Elisabeth Zielinski of Stevens Point, WI, Erica (Louie) Haga of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, and Erin Gentz of Stevens Point, WI; eight great-grandchildren: Ilan, Ozi, Henry, Nora, Josie, Eliza, Phoebe, and Sawyer; and six step-great-grandchildren: Mackenzie, Mason, Madalynn, Madasyn, Mikel, and Mya.

Norma also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, along with extended family and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Phil (in 2019); her parents, Clyde and Viola Wethern; her siblings: Adeline Jacobi, Audrey Schultz, Kathleen Seehafer, and Alfred Wethern; her son-in-law, Darin Roth.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Westwood Ridge and Hospice with Vivie—with special appreciation to her hospice nurse, Maren—for their tender care and support.

Visitation and funeral services for Norma will be held on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 300 Logan Street, Merrill, WI. The family will receive friends and relatives from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Justin H. Smoot officiating. A luncheon will follow at the church, with burial afterward at Oak Hill Cemetery on County Road V in the Town of Skanawan, WI.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com