Norma L. McLauchlin-Burns, 81

Norma Burns, 81, of Kalispell, passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019.

Norma was born March 16, 1938, in Polson to Eldon and Helen Coverdell. She attended schools in Essex and Columbia Falls.

Her joy was collectibles. One of her favorite passions was giving to the less fortunate in need — donating to Toys for Tots, thrift stores, the Salvation Army, veterans, and sending care packages to the U.S. troops overseas. She enjoyed cooking, taking scenic drives and reading about the history of Montana, and she visited many historic places.

Norma went to work for the U.S. Forest Service in 1976 as a purchaser, starting at the Tally Lake Ranger District and worked in other District offices, including Glacier Mountain View, Seattle District, and retired at the Bigfork Ranger Station in 2006.

Norma grew up most of her life in Montana. She moved out to Seattle for her work with the U.S. Forest Service and then transferred to North Bend, Washington, and lived out there seven years. Norma missed this valley and couldn’t stay away from the beautiful Glacier Park, so moved back to the valley in 1991 and married her husband, Don Burns, of 18 years.

One of Norma’s fondest trips they took together was a Caribbean cruise off of Florida. Norma’s most memorable place to live was at Summit Maria’s Pass.

Norma was a unique and creative lady with a love and passion in her hands with everything she touched. She will be dearly missed by many friends and family.

Norma is survived by her three children, Derrick McLauchlin (Cathy) of Post Falls, Idaho, Eldon McLauchlin of Spokane, and Sue Thorp of Kalispell; three stepchildren, Don Jr., Donna Lee and Wayne; sister, Janice Coverdell; 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; many nieces and one nephew.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents, sister Nancy Ostheller and sister Elda Rae Petersen.

There will be a celebration of her life up at Summit Maria’s Pass at a future date with family.