Norman Benge Fjeldsted

Norman was born on February 12, 1925 in Berkeley, California, the only child to Norman Samuel and Ottilie Benge Fjeldsted. His family relocated to Southern California where he attended Beverly Hills High School. With a love for science and engineering he attended Caltech and Naval ROTC. He graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1945. He attended Midshipmen’s school at Columbia University after which he deployed on Patrol Craft Escort 843 to the Philippines. Returning from service in World War II, Norm taught Physics at Citrus Jr. College and then worked for Howard Hughes and Hughes Aircraft. In 1953 he attended Stanford University earning a Masters Degree the following year. This is also where he met and then married Ann Atkerson. Together they returned to Southern California where Norm worked in the aerospace industry. They became the proud parents of six children, John, Karen, Matthew, James (deceased), Paul and Christa. They raised their family within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he and each in the family served in many capacities.

Norm had many interests. He was an avid collector of early Mormon literature, having assembled one of the most significant private collections including the first additions of the Book of Mormon and Constitution of Deseret which is now the copy held by Brigham Young University. He also had an interest in automobiles and a love for jazz music. It was common to hear him whistle a tune or jazz piece playing in his head. He had a positive approach to life and faith in the future. He knew how to work, and looked for opportunity to bring this gift to his children. The family motto became ‘the family that works together – stays together’. And though the marriage did not continue, the family continues to be very close.

Norm has always been a firm believer in miracles and manifestation of this came as Suzanne Miner entered into his life with the two being married and sealed together for eternity on July 1, 1989. Along with all the happiness this brought came also four additional family members, her children, Michelle, Monique, Todd, and Jennifer as well as Sue’s mother, Beth Stewart and Sue’s siblings, Sharilyn, Bill and Betty.

After a successful career in the electronics industry, Norm completed the needed coursework and obtained his teaching credential. He taught Physics for ten years at Villa Park High School. He was highly respected and loved by his students.

In their home in Lake Forest, California, Norm and Sue created a piece of heaven where children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were often present, providing many happy memories.

After Sue’s passing, Norm came to Alpine, Utah where he has lived near son, Paul, his brother-in-law, Bill, and many grandchildren who came to attend Brigham Young and Utah Valley Universities. Norm was blessed with a keen mind and throughout his life he was constantly learning and expanding his knowledge. He was active in genealogical work and over the last few years completed numerous reads of the Book of Mormon. Though well accomplished in many things, Norm’s greatest joy has been his family. Though we miss him, he is now with his beloved Sue and dearly loved family members who have gone on before him. Norm is survived by extended family including Sue’s siblings Bill and Betty, nine children and their spouses, twenty-nine grandchildren and their spouses and twenty-six great-grandchildren.

A Graveside service was held Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and a Memorial Service was held Saturday, December 19, 2020 via Zoom.