Norma Jean Cretal

Norma Jean Cretal was born August 3rd, 1929 in Ontario, Canada. She was the first of four children to Lyle Reid and Laura Reid. Her Family moved to Michigan, and she graduated from Pontiac High School. After graduating high school, she joined the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force Norma met and married Louis Cretal in 1953. They were blessed with four children, Deborah, Dean, Bruce and Leon and raised their family in Thousand Oaks since the early 60’s. She worked for Northrop in Newbury Park for 30 years on projects such as Mercury, Gemini, Apollo and Space Lab. Norma was 1 of 3 people and the only woman qualified to hand-pack the massive parachutes for Apollo space capsules. Norma had a passion for sewing, quilting, camping, fishing, traveling, being a dedicated member of the Sons of Norway and Ascension Lutheran Church for 60 years. Her smile would light up the whole room. She led an amazing life and will be greatly missed by all.

Norma passed away peacefully in her home on April 5th, 2023 in Thousand Oaks, California.

Norma is survived by her children Deborah of San Diego, CA, Dean of Colorado and Leon of Idaho; and her 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchildren.

A visitation for Norma will be held Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1600 E Hillcrest Dr., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362. A funeral service will occur Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 1600 E Hillcrest Dr., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362. A graveside service will occur Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park, 5600 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village, CA 91362. Reception immediately following the burial.