Norlan Ver Steeg

NORLAN GENE VER STEEG was born September 20, 1950 to Norman and Anna Mae (Wielenga) Ver Steeg in Le Mars, Iowa. The family lived on a farm southeast of Hull, Iowa where Norlan attended country school through 2nd grade. They then moved to a farm east of Hardwick, Minnesota where he attended school through 8th grade and graduated from Luverne High School in 1968. Norlan attended Jackson Vocational and Technical School and graduated as a power linesman. He enlisted in the National Guard and serve from 1969 - 1975. Following his education he began working as a lineman for Donovan Construction Company in Madison, Wisconsin.

On July 24, 1970 Norlan married Kathleen Kain at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Elmore, Minnesota. They then made their home in Danube, Minnesota where Norlan worked as a lineman for Renville/Sibley Co-op Power Company. In the spring of 1976, the family moved to a farm northeast of Luverne, Minnesota where Norlan pursued his passion to farm. He worked the land growing corn and beans, raised hogs and devoted much of his time caring for the cows and calves. The farm is where Norlan wanted to raise his family of two sons Bradley, Nathan and daughter Manda. While farming he strengthened his personal faith in the Lord by living and working through the good times and the bad - God always provided.

Norlan was a member of the Magnolia United Methodist Church in Magnolia, Minnesota where he served on numerous boards. He also belonged to the Hardwick American Legion and was treasurer of the Vienna Township Board for many years. Norlan enjoyed playing softball and basketball in his younger years. He made many special relationships with friends over the years; at the diamonds, near a basketball court or watching his own children and grandchildren in activities. Norlan and Kathleen became 'bikers' in the 90's and they shared several adventures to Sturgis and elsewhere on his Harley with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and relaxing by a bonfire. He was a loyal Minnesota sports' fan also including the Luverne Cardinals. Norlan was most proud of having the opportunity to watch each one of his children and grandchildren transform into the people they are now.

On January 30, 2013 Norlan was diagnosed with Stage 4 Esophageal cancer that metastasized into the liver. He continued to 'Fight like a Farmer' battling cancer until August 13, 2013 when he went to be with his Lord at the age of 62 years, 10 months and 23 days.

Norlan will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Kathleen of Luverne; three children, Bradley (Amy) Ver Steeg, Nathan (Tonya) Ver Steeg, and Manda (Mark) Steensma, all of Luverne; seven grandchildren, Hannah, Alexis, Sage, Brooklynn, Isabella, Kale and Tate. His mother, Anna Mae Ver Steeg of Luverne; sister, Anita Top; brothers, Virgil (Jamey) Ver Steeg, Harold (Nancy) Ver Steeg, Bruce (Jolene) Ver Steeg; brother-in-law, Gene Eitreim; several nieces and nephews; and many beloved neighbors and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Ver Steeg; infant brother, Earl Wayne; and a sister, Earleen Eitreim.