Jackie E. Norden

Jack enlisted in the Marine Corp in August 1959 and served his country honorably for 20 years attaining the rank of Gunnery Sergeant. Jack spent most of his career in the Pacific area of operations including serving in Vietnam in 1969-1971 and 3 assignments to Okinawa Japan. Jack was awarded the Rifle Expert Badge, Sharpshooter Pistol Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal (with 5 stars), Viet Nam Service Medal, Viet Nam Cross of Gallantry (with Palm), Navy Commendation Medal (with Valor) and the Viet Nam Civic Action Ribbon.

After several years of farming, Jack continued his life of service by becoming a High School teacher. He taught at Sargent Public High School as an Art and Photography teacher for 14 years and during this time he had the opportunity to teach 3 of his children and one grandchild.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents Walter Norden and Mildred Best, brother Gale, and by his son Michael Norden. He is survived by his loving wife Karen and children John, Jennifer, Jesse, Jerod, Tony and Jennifer. Jack was also blessed by 12 grandchildren; Tyler, Danielle, Nicole, Nathaniel, Hannah, Angel, Zachery, Cassidy, Emily, Charlie, Matthew and Jaydon and two great grandchildren Bo and Bella.

All those who knew Jack were blessed. He always had a joke or a story to share even if you have already heard it before. He was a good friend, loving husband and father and grandfather! He served his country, community, family and God for 76 years. He didn’t return anger with anger, but rather with grace and forgiveness. He will be missed dearly!!