Norma B. Pettie was born to Isal Bettis and Robert Hithcock in Sewel, IA, December 30, 1921. She rejoined her heavenly father and family on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at home from her long time residence in Yakima.
Norma was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and two husbands, Daniel W. Growcock and David L. Pettie, and her son, Timothy L. Growcock.
She is survived by her daughters Nancy J. Staley of Yakima, and Marlene Gonzales of Longmont, CO, her sons, Daniel D. Growcock of Rocklin, CA, and David A. Pettie (Janet) also of Longmont, CO.
She also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren, as well as a large extended family of friends and relatives.
Norma’s family moved from the Midwest to Emmette, ID in the early 30’s where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Daniel. They moved to the Yakima area in 1940. After the war, Norma and Daniel adopted their first child, Nancy, then Dan, and became a foster family in 1952, adopting Tim, and made a special home for 38 babies and toddlers, many with special needs. She still found time to be very active in the local PTA, serving as co-president with her husband, Danny. He passed in 1965.
She remarried in 1974 to a long-time family friend, David Pettie, with whom, after retirement, they found great pleasure in caravanning with friends and family in motor homes and busses throughout the country, spending time in AZ for the winter until he passed in 2000.
Norma returned to work outside the home in 1960 at W T Grants, eventually becoming credit manager until it closed in the mid 70’s. She then took a position in the credit department at Jed’s Sportsland until her retirement.
Norma was an extraordinarily warm woman whose home was always open for family and friends alike. No invitation necessary. Her non-judgmental attitudes, acceptance of all, and sound advice given with empathy and love will be missed by all who knew her.
A viewing at Keith & Keith will be held Thursday, Nov. 8, 4-8 p.m. A celebration of Norma’s life will be held on Nov. 9th at 1 p.m. at Keith & Keith, followed by a short interment service at Terrace Heights Memorial Park.
A potluck get together will be held at the Broadway Grange after services for those who would like to join family and friends from 2-4 p.m.
